Acute Bacterial Meningitis

Acute bacterial meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the protective layers of the central nervous system (CNS) and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), secondary to bacterial infection. Symptoms of bacterial meningitis (BM) can be manifested by stiff neck, headache, fever, confusion or altered mental status, nausea, and vomiting. The pathogens responsible for bacterial meningitis vary according to several factors, including the patient's age and geographic location. The main germs responsible for bacterial meningitis are Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus), Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), and Haemophilus influenzae. The neurological complications of meningitis, such as hearing loss, hydrocephalus, increased intracranial pressure and brain damage are of particular concern. Early diagnosis, preventive strategies, and appropriate treatment are of great importance to prevent serious complications. This chapter provides an overview on the BM epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic, and treatment as well as preventive strategies.