Pharmacologic basis for antimicrobial therapy of neonatal meningitis

Although effective antimicrobial agents are available and despite considerable advances in rapid diagnosis and supportive care, the prognosis of neonatal bacterial meningitis remains relatively poor. A pharmacological concept for antimicrobial therapy of neonatal meningitis is presented which is derived from the pertinent in vitro and in vivo data concerning the currently employed and investigational regimens. Specific recommendations for antimicrobial management of neonatal meningitis are given based on attainment of appreciable bactericidal activity in CSF which should result in prompt eradication of the offending pathogen from CSF.