Meningitis is an inflammation that occurs in the meninges, or linings of the brain. This can be due to infectious processes as well as non-infectious inflammatory conditions. The most common forms of meningitis are caused by viruses. Less commonly, bacteria produce meningitis. Non-infectious meningitis or chemical meningitis can occur when some agent leads to intense inflammation in the subarachnoid space. Fungal infections and tuberculosis can also lead to meningitis, although these are less common.
Causes of Meningitis
Viral meningitis often includes Coxsackie virus as well as the virus that causes mumps. Outbreaks of viral meningitis often occur in outbreaks in the summer. Bacterial meningitis may occur spontaneously. Often bacterial meningitis spreads from the respiratory tract. Fungal or tuberculosis meningitis often attacks an individual with a weakened immune system. This can occur in chronic infection, HIV infection or in those people with cancer. Chemical meningitis can occur from substances injected into the spinal fluid. This can lead to chemical or allergic meningitis. Also, infectious processes or tumors may releases substances into the spinal fluid which incite an inflammatory response in the spinal fluid.
Signs and Symptoms of Meningitis
Initial symptoms often include fever, muscle aches or headaches. The symptoms are usually more severe in bacterial meningitis. Stiff neck, nausea and vomiting, seizures and localized neurological symptoms can occur. Viral meningitis usually occurs over several days, while fungal and tuberculosis meningitis may take weeks or months. Meningococcal meningitis often produces a red, flat rash.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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