Epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, and diagnosis of recurrent bacterial meningitis

Pneumococcal Vaccination Rates and Associated Meningitis Events in Patients With Acute Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the institutional utilization of pneumococcal vaccination during an index hospital admission for acute cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage and associated infectious and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients hospitalized and treated for an acute CSF leak from January 2017 to June 2022. The primary outcome evaluated the incidence of pneumococcal vaccination during the index admission in patients without prior vaccination. Secondary outcomes evaluated the incidence of meningitis, time from CSF leak identification to meningitis, and mortality within 1 year of the index admission.

RESULTS

A total of 94 patients were included. Nineteen (20.2%) patients received pneumococcal vaccination prior to admission. Of the 75 patients without prior vaccination, 4 (5.3%) patients received vaccination during the admission. Meningitis occurred in 5/94 (5.3%) patients and occurred 4-24 days from CSF leak identification. Mortality was observed in 9/94 (9.6%) patients. None of the meningitis cases were attributed to culture-positive findings of pneumococcal disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study demonstrate an overall low institutional utilization of pneumococcal vaccination in patients with an acute CSF leak. Infectious and clinical outcomes reflected comparable to previous reported literature. Further evaluation into the risk-benefit relationship of vaccination omission is warranted in this patient population.

Diagnosis and Management of Paradoxical Cerebrospinal Rhinnorhea in Mondini's Dysplasia

Objectives

To highlight a case of unilateral Mondini's dysplasia and it's potential to manifest as paradoxical cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhoea and recurrent meningitis in an adult.

Methods

A single case report with presentation and management of a patient with left sided Mondini's Dysplasia who presented with watery nasal discharge in the background of recurrent meningitis. We review the differential diagnoses and the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach to management.

Results

Post-auricular approach was taken and the leak was identified at the footplate of Stapes and sealed with fascia lata. The middle ear was obliterated and blind sac closure was done. The patient made a good recovery.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12070-024-04903-5.

Recurrent community-acquired pneumococcal meningitis in adults with and without identified predisposing factors

Bacterial meningitis is still a significant public health concern, with high morbidity and mortality rates. Despite this, it is still a rare event that requires the bacterial invasion of the meninges. However, some predisposing factors can trigger recurrent episodes of meningitis. This study is aimed at determining the clinical characteristics and the molecular epidemiology of episodes of recurrent community-acquired meningitis with and without predisposing factors. For this purpose, we performed a retrospective study of our laboratory database during the period of 2010 to 2020. Additionally, using molecular tools developed in our previous works, the epidemiology of the pathogens causing these episodes was analyzed using cerebrospinal fluid samples, especially in the absence of isolated strains. We observed a total of 1,779 meningitis cases and 230 were caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. Of those, 16 were recurrent meningitis episodes (16/1,779; 0.9%) from seven patients. Pneumococcus was the main agent responsible in these recurrent episodes and only two episodes were caused by Haemophilus influenzae. The mean age of these patients was 20 years old and three had predisposing factors which could have led to contracting meningitis. The samples presented different pneumococcal serotypes. Most of them were non-vaccine-covered serotypes and antibiotic susceptible strains. Therefore, it was demonstrated how the practical employment of molecular tools, developed for research, when applied in the routine of diagnosis, can provide important information for epidemiological surveillance. Furthermore, it was shown how pneumococcus was the leading cause of recurrent community-acquired meningitis without predisposing factors, suggesting that pneumococcal vaccination may be necessary, even in those groups of individuals considered to be less susceptible.

Single-Stage Endoscopic Repair of Pediatric Basal Encephalocele: A Comprehensive Multimedia Case Report

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

Basal encephaloceles are the result of a concomitant cranial and dural defect that allows for inferior displacement of cerebral tissue, meninges, and cerebrospinal fluid into the paranasal sinuses and outside the cranial vault. This work illustrates a step-by-step surgical approach of a successful single-stage, endoscopic repair of a congenital basal encephalocele in a 10-year-old child, using a free mucosal middle turbinate graft that provided effective results without utilization of traditional open reconstructive techniques or vascularized flaps.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

A previously healthy 10-year-old male with a history of unilateral clear rhinorrhea was admitted as an inpatient because of an acute episode of nausea, vomiting, and confusion, accompanied by fever, diplopia, and bilateral abducens nerve palsies. Preoperative imaging revealed a 2-cm right-sided intranasal mass accompanied by a subcentimeter skull base defect spanning the lateral lamella. After completing a course of intravenous antibiotic therapy for 1 week after a negative lumbar puncture to ensure clearance of intracranial infection, the decision was made to proceed with definitive endoscopic skull base repair to obviate recurrent bacterial meningitis episodes and potential neurological complications.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates technical feasibility of a single-stage endoscopic endonasal approach for pediatric basal encephalocele resection and repair which minimizes craniofacial morbidity associated with traditional open approaches and sinonasal morbidity associated with local pedicle-based flaps for small cranial base defects in this unique patient population.

Cribriform plate dehiscence with encephalomeningocele revealed by recurrent meningitis: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Meningitis is a potentially life threatening illness. It requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Recurrent meningitis needs detailed investigations to identify the underlying cause.

OBSERVATION

We report a case of recurrent pneumococcal meningitis in a 9-year-old boy with an underlying congenital skull base abnormality. Brain computed tomography (CT) scan showed no obvious skull base defects. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed a dehiscence of the cribriform plate with encephalomeningocele. The patient underwent an endoscopic repair of the bony defect and had not developed any new infections ever since.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights the need to investigate recurrent bacterial meningitis with CT scan and MRI of the brain and skull base. Repair of these congenital skull base defects are mandatory to prevent the recurrence of meningitis.

Recurrent bacterial meningitis in children in the Netherlands: a nationwide surveillance study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to estimate the recurrence rate of culture-positive bacterial meningitis in children in the Netherlands.

DESIGN

Nationwide surveillance study, using the database of the Netherlands Reference Laboratory for Bacterial Meningitis to identify patients with culture-positive bacterial meningitis during childhood.

SETTING

The study was based in the Netherlands.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 9731 children with a first bacterial meningitis episode between 1 July 1987 and 30 June 2019 were identified.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Recurrence was defined as a subsequent episode >28 days, or caused by a different pathogen. Annual incidence and incidence rate ratios (IRRs) comparing the periods 1988-2003 and 2004-2019 were calculated. Predictors of recurrent meningitis were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression.

RESULTS

Sixty-three (0.6%) of the 9731 children with a first bacterial meningitis episode contracted recurrent meningitis. Neisseria meningitidis was the leading pathogen for first meningitis episodes (52%) and Streptococcus pneumoniae for recurrent episodes (52%). The median annual incidence of first episodes per 100 000 children decreased from 11.81 (IQR 11.26-17.60) in 1988-2003 to 2.60 (IQR 2.37-4.07) in 2004-2019 (IRR 0.25, 95% CI 0.23 to 0.26). The incidence of recurrences did not change: 0.06 (IQR 0.02-0.11) in 1988-2003 to 0.03 (IQR 0.00-0.06) in 2004-2019 (IRR 0.65, 95% CI 0.39 to 1.1). Age above 5 years (OR 3.6 (95% CI 1.5 to 8.3)) and a first episode due to Escherichia coli (OR 25.7 (95% CI 7.2 to 92.0)) were associated with higher risks of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

The recurrence rate of childhood bacterial meningitis in the Netherlands was 0.6%. While the incidence rate of first episodes decreased substantially, this was not the case for recurrent episodes. Older age and a first episode due to E. coli were associated with higher recurrence risks.

A case of fatal acute bacterial meningoencephalitis with extremely high cerebrospinal fluid white blood cell count

Acute bacterial meningoencephalitis is still prevalent despite the widespread vaccination and still fatal despite the advances in antimicrobial therapy. Identifying patients at risk, lowering the threshold of clinical diagnosis and early treatment of such a curable disease will save patients' lives.

Management of Meningitis Due to Cystic Cochleovestibular Malformation: a Stitch in Time

Spontaneous CSF otorrhea alludes to those cases which have no known etiology like traumatic, iatrogenic, neoplastic or infectious. The presentation of the patient depends on the anatomical integrity of the eustachian tube as well as the tympanic membrane. Children with certain congenital inner ear malformations, including incomplete partition deformity, show a higher incidence of spontaneous CSF leaks and the resultant meningitis. Cystic vestibulocochlear deformity accounts for approximately 20% of inner ear malformations. In this case report, we discuss a child who presented with first episode of meningitis and with the help of thorough clinical otorhinolaryngological examination and radiology, was diagnosed with a congenital ear anomaly. With this paper, we stress upon the importance of keeping an open mind regarding the differential diagnosis of any condition, and the value of timely intervention.

Bacterial meningitis: Aetiology, risk factors, disease trends and severe sequelae during 50 years in Sweden

BACKGROUND

Bacterial meningitis (BM) is a rare but severe infection. Few population-based studies have characterised BM episodes and sequelae over long periods.

METHODS

This was a population-based observational cohort study with national coverage, using data on aetiological pathogens, sex, premorbid conditions, steroid pretreatment, severe sequelae and birth, death and diagnosis dates collected from 10,339 patients with BM reported to the National Board of Health and Welfare in Sweden between 1964 and 2014.

RESULTS

During the 50-year study period, the incidence of BM decreased in young children, but not in the elderly. The most common cause of BM was pneumococci (34%), followed by Haemophilus influenzae (26%), and meningococci (18%), mainly community acquired. Premorbid conditions were found in 20%. After the H. influenzae type b vaccine was introduced in 1993, the BM incidence decreased by 36%. Following pneumococcal conjugated vaccine introduction in 2009, the incidence and 30-day mortality from pneumococcal meningitis decreased by 64% and 100%, respectively, in previously healthy children, and the 30-day mortality decreased by 64% among comorbid adults. The BM incidence in immunosuppressed patients increased by 3% annually post vaccine introduction. The 30-day mortality was 3% in children and 14% in adults, and the rate of severe sequelae was 44%. On average, patients lost 11 years of healthy life due to BM.

CONCLUSION

The introduction of conjugated vaccines into the childhood vaccination program has reduced the incidence of BM in young children, but not in adults. Post vaccine introduction, patients present with more premorbid conditions and other bacterial causes of BM, emphasising the need for a correct diagnosis when treating these infections.

Efficacy of endoscopic repair for CSF otorrhoea in children with recurrent meningitis due to incomplete partition type 1

OBJECTIVE

To review the efficacy of endoscopic management with or without cochlear implantation in a pediatric population presenting with recurrent meningitis due to inner ear incomplete partition type 1 (IP-1).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A multicentric report of 6 patients with a history of recurrent meningitis due to IP-1 was done. Radiological evaluation was performed to confirm the diagnosis. Transcanal endoscopic repair of the defect was performed in 3 cases, 2 cases underwent endoscope-assisted repair followed by cochlear implantation in the contralateral ear later, and 1 patient underwent endoscopic repair along with simultaneous cochlear implantation.

RESULTS

Radiology confirmed the diagnosis and identified the site of the leak. A leak was detected in all cases from the stapes footplate. Two patients with unilateral deformity had a CSF-filled cyst protruding through a defect in the stapes footplate, and the rest of the four had a high flow CSF leak from the footplate. Five patients who underwent repair have had no further episodes of meningitis. One patient who received simultaneous implantation and repair developed postoperative meningitis managed successfully with antibiotics.

CONCLUSION

Hearing loss due to inner ear deformity can be easily missed as a cause for recurrent meningitis, especially if unilateral. A high index of suspicion, audiological screening and radiology are essential to clinch the diagnosis. In such cases, a pure endoscopic or endoscopic assisted transcanal approach to repair CSF otorrhoea is an effective alternative to more radical procedures like subtotal petrosectomy with obliteration. In patients with bilateral profound hearing loss, simultaneous cochlear implantation and repair of the defect can be performed successfully.

A Retrospective Study of Recurrent Bacterial Meningitis in Children: Etiology, Clinical Course, and Treatment

Objectives

Recurrent bacterial meningitis (RBM) is a rare but life-threatening disease. This study aims to analyze the clinical features, potential causes, and therapeutic outcomes of RBM in children.

Methods

This article retrospectively reviews the clinical characteristics, etiologies, and treatments in children with RBM hospitalized in Hebei children's hospital from 2012 to 2020.

Results

A total of 10 children with RBM, five males and five females, were included in this study. The age of RBM in children spans from the neonatal stage to the childhood stage. The underlying illnesses were identified and classified as cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea (1 case), humoral immunodeficiency with Mondini dysplasia (1 case), common cavity deformity with cerebrospinal fluid ear leakage (1 case), Mondini malformations (2 cases), incomplete cochlear separation type I with a vestibular enlargement (2 cases), local inflammation of the sphenoid bone caused by cellulitis (1 case), congenital skull base defects (1 case), and congenital dermal sinus with intraspinal abscess (1 case). 6 patients chose targeted therapy for potential reasons.

Conclusions

Congenital abnormalities or acquired injuries lead to intracranial communication with the outside world, which can quickly become a portal for bacterial invasion of the central nervous system, resulting in repeated infections.

Infectious Meningitis and Encephalitis

Infectious meningitis and encephalitis are associated with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Acute bacterial meningitis is rapidly fatal and early recognition and institution of therapy are imperative. Viral meningitis is typically a benign self-limited illness. Chronic meningitis (defined as presenting with >4 weeks of symptoms) is most often caused by tuberculosis and fungal infection. Because the diagnostic testing for tuberculous meningitis is insensitive and cultures often take weeks to grow, therapy is often initiated empirically when the diagnosis is suspected. Human simplex virus encephalitis is the most common cause of encephalitis and requires prompt treatment with intravenous acyclovir.

Recurrent Community-Acquired Bacterial Meningitis in Adults

BACKGROUND

Recurrent bacterial meningitis has been found to occur in about 5% of meningitis cases.

METHODS

We analyzed adults with recurrent episodes in a prospective nationwide cohort study of community-acquired bacterial meningitis.

RESULTS

Of 2264 episodes of community-acquired bacterial meningitis between 2006 and 2018, 143 (6%) were identified as recurrent episodes in 123 patients. The median age was 57 years (interquartile range [IQR], 43-66), and 57 episodes (46%) occurred in men. The median duration between the first and the current episode was 5 years (IQR, 1-15). For 82 of 123 patients (67%), it was the first recurrent episode, 31 patients had 2-5 previous episodes (25%), 2 had 6-10 episodes (2%), and 2 had >10 episodes (2%). Predisposing factors were identified in 87 of 118 patients (74%) and most commonly consisted of ear or sinus infections (43 of 120, 36%) and cerebrospinal fluid leakage (37 of 116, 32%). The most common pathogens were Streptococcus pneumoniae (93 of 143, 65%) and Haemophilus influenzae (19 of 143, 13%). The outcome was unfavorable (Glasgow outcome scale score, <5) in 24 episodes with recurrent meningitis (17%) vs 810 for nonrecurrent meningitis patients (39%, P < .001). Six of 143 died (4%) vs 362 of 2095 patients (17%, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrent meningitis occurs mainly in patients with ear or sinus infections and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Predominant causative pathogens are S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae. The disease course is less severe, resulting in lower case fatality compared with nonrecurrent meningitis patients.

Community-acquired bacterial meningitis

Progress has been made in the prevention and treatment of community-acquired bacterial meningitis during the past three decades but the burden of the disease remains high globally. Conjugate vaccines against the three most common causative pathogens (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae) have reduced the incidence of disease, but with the replacement by non-vaccine pneumococcal serotypes and the emergence of bacterial strains with reduced susceptibility to antimicrobial treatment, meningitis continues to pose a major health challenge worldwide. In patients presenting with bacterial meningitis, typical clinical characteristics (such as the classic triad of neck stiffness, fever, and an altered mental status) might be absent and cerebrospinal fluid examination for biochemistry, microscopy, culture, and PCR to identify bacterial DNA are essential for the diagnosis. Multiplex PCR point-of-care panels in cerebrospinal fluid show promise in accelerating the diagnosis, but diagnostic accuracy studies to justify routine implementation are scarce and randomised, controlled studies are absent. Early administration of antimicrobial treatment (within 1 hour of presentation) improves outcomes and needs to be adjusted according to local emergence of drug resistance. Adjunctive dexamethasone treatment has proven efficacy beyond the neonatal age but only in patients from high-income countries. Further progress can be expected from implementing preventive measures, especially the development of new vaccines, implementation of hospital protocols aimed at early treatment, and new treatments targeting checkpoints of the inflammatory cascade.

Predisposing conditions for bacterial meningitis in children: what radiologists need to know

A variety of underlying diseases can predispose infants and children to bacterial meningitis (BM). For the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of its recurrence, radiologists should be familiar with its predisposing conditions so that they can suggest the appropriate imaging approach. Predisposing conditions of BM can be broadly classified into two categories: infection spread from the adjacent tissue to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) space and immunodeficiency. Diseases in the former category are further divided according to regardless of whether there is a structural defect between the CSF space and the adjacent tissue. When a structural defect is suspected in a patient with BM, computed tomography (CT) of the head and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging are first-line imaging examinations. Radionuclide cisternography should be implemented as a second-line step to identify the CSF leak site. In patients with suspected parameningeal infection without any structural defect, such as sinusitis or otitis media/mastoiditis, CT or MR images can identify not only the disease itself but also the associated intracranial complications. The purpose of this article is to discuss the diagnostic approach and imaging findings associated with the variety of conditions predisposing patients to recurrent BM, focusing on the role of radiology in their management.

[A case of spontaneous middle cranial fossa cerebrospinal fluid leak presenting as recurrent bacterial meningitis]

A 19-year-old man with a history of Chiari type I malformation was admitted to our hospital two times within a 2-month period because of bacterial meningitis. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed neutrophilic pleocytosis and hypoglycorrhachia. During the second admission, we became aware of hearing loss on the right since age 15 years. High-resolution temporal bone CT showed soft tissue opacification of the right epitympanum and external auditory canal. Tissue biopsy resulted in CSF otorrhea and pneumocephalus. CT cisternography revealed a temporal bone CSF leak. Brain MRI showed a dural defect localized to the anterior petrous apex. Using a combined middle cranial fossa-transmastoid approach, the dural defect and associated arachnoid granulations were located along the superior side of the greater petrosal nerve and repaired. A CSF leak without underlying pathology, such as trauma, surgery, or congenital abnormality, is defined as spontaneous. Spontaneous CSF leak should be considered as a cause of recurrent bacterial meningitis even when CSF otorrhea and fluid behind the tympanic membrane are clinically absent.

Characteristics of Pediatric Recurrent Bacterial Meningitis in Beijing Children's Hospital, 2006-2019

BACKGROUND

Few data on recurrent bacterial meningitis (RBM) in children are available. Here, we estimated the frequency of RBM in children and investigated the predisposing conditions, etiology, and clinical characteristics of RBM in children.

METHODS

Cases of RBM in the Beijing Children's Hospital medical record database between January 2006 and December 2019 were collected.

RESULTS

In total, 1905 children with bacterial meningitis (BM) were documented in the Beijing Children's Hospital medical record database. A total of 43 patients had RBM. The rate of RBM in children was 2.3% (43/1905). Forty (93.0%) patients had predisposing conditions, including 15 (34.9%) cases of inner ear malformations, 5 (11.6%) cases of dermal sinus tracts, 9 (20.9%) cases of head injury, 5 (11.6%) cases of congenital cranial meningocele, 3 (7.0%) cases of congenital skull base defects, 3 (7.0%) cases of immunodeficiency, and other 3 (7.0%) cases of unknown reason. Among all the 121 BM episodes, a total of 64 episodes were etiologically confirmed BM and the other 57 episodes were probable BM. Streptococcus pneumoniae (n = 52) was accounted for 81.3% of confirmed BM episodes. Thirty-four of the 37 patients with congenital or acquired anatomical defects were available to follow up after surgeries, and all of them had no BM after surgeries. Three patients with antibody deficiencies got intravenous immunoglobulin therapy and they did not suffer BM anymore.

CONCLUSIONS

RBM is rare in children. The majority of children with RBM had predisposing conditions including congenital/acquired anatomical defects and immunodeficiency. Interventions should be implemented to solve the underlying conditions to avoid RBM.

Peristapedial bulb: an indicator of spontaneous CSF leak in cochlear candidates with Mondini dysplasia

BACKGROUND

Mondini dysplasia with spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is rare in cochlear implantation (CI) candidates but lethal. Detailed evaluation and surgical intervention are needed for these patients.

AIM/OBJECTIVE

To report our findings of the peristapedial bulb in computer tomography (CT) as diagnostic evidence of spontaneous CSF leak and discuss its clinical value to direct the surgical plan for patients with profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and meningitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted, including patients' demographic features, radiographic examination, operation records, auditory/speech evaluation. The patients presented with a peristapedial bulb were included.

RESULTS

In 2775 CI recipients, 7 out of 219 (3.2%) patients with Mondini anomaly had detectable peristapedial bulbs in HRCT, among whom 6 patients have a history of meningitis. Surgical exploration verified the radiographic findings in 6 out of 7 patients. All patients received CI and vestibular obliteration. Control of meningitis was acceptable. The threshold of hearing significantly decreased from 74.1 dB ± 6.9 dB to 37.1 ± 4.8 dB after CI and the word recognition score elevated from 21.4 ± 14.9% to 78.6 ± 9.3%.

CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE

Peristapedial bulb is an indicator of spontaneous CSF leak in patients with profound SHNL and Mondini anomaly. Patients will benefit from CI and surgical intervention.

[Recurrent meningitis revealing a Bing-Neel syndrome]

INTRODUCTION

Bing-Neel syndrome is a rare complication of Waldenström macroglobulinemia, defined by monoclonal lymphoplasmocytic cells in the cerebrospinal fluid or in central nervous system biopsy.

CASE REPORT

We report a 47-year-old man, with no prior history, who presented a recurrent aseptic lymphocytic meningitis with central nervous manifestations. The presence of a monoclonal lymphoplasmacytic proliferation in cerebrospinal fluid, blood and bone marrow biopsy results was compatible with a diagnosis of Bing-Neel syndrome. Despite the absence of any specific treatment, there was no recurrence of symptoms at 4-month follow-up, and the MRI lesions remained stable.

CONCLUSION

We report a case of Bing-Neel syndrome revealed by a recurrent meningitis. Outcome without treatment was favorable at 4-month follow-up.

[A case of nasal discharge resulting in recurrent bacterial meningitis]

A 47-year-old man who was previously hospitalized three times due to bacterial meningitis experienced a headache and posterior neck pain in May. He was admitted to our hospital because of a fever 3 h later. He was fully conscious and febrile, with a headache and signs of meningeal irritation. A cerebrospinal fluid examination showed an increased number of cells with polynuclear cell predominance and decreased glucose levels, leading to the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. Steroid and antibiotic treatment was initiated, at which time, large amounts of nasal discharge were observed. Cisternal scintigraphy was performed, and cerebrospinal fluid was detected in the nasal discharge. The cause was idiopathic, and endoscopic repair was performed. The nasal fluid leakage was suggested to be the cause of the recurrent bacterial meningitis in this case.

Relapse of Neonatal Escherichia coli Meningitis: Did We Miss Something at First?

Relapse of neonatal meningitis is most commonly caused by Escherichia coli. Management to prevent relapse varies and evidence is limited. We present four cases of relapsing neonatal E. coli meningitis in Denmark in 2016-2017 and review the current literature on this subject. During the primary episodes, our patients received cephalosporin for 3 weeks and gentamicin for the first 3 days. The only identified risk factor was delayed CSF sterilization in three of four cases and no repeated lumbar puncture. Relapse occurred after 2-28 days; one case with ventriculitis and one with empyema. Relapses were treated for 6-14 weeks with monotherapy. No children had an underlying disease predisposing to E. coli meningitis. There is generally a trend towards reducing invasive procedures, e.g., lumbar puncture and the length of intravenous antibiotics in pediatric infectious diseases, but our cases highlight a condition where the opposite might be needed.

Community-acquired Bacterial Meningitis in Adults With Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage

Background

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage is a risk factor for developing bacterial meningitis.

Methods

We analyzed episodes of community-acquired bacterial meningitis associated with CSF leakage from a prospective nationwide cohort study.

Results

CSF leakage was identified in 65 episodes of 2022 episodes (3%) in 53 patients. The cause of CSF leakage was identified in 49 of 65 episodes (75%), which most commonly consisted of ear-nose-throat surgery (19 of 49 episodes [29%]) and remote head trauma (15 of 49 episodes [23%]). The episode was a recurrent meningitis episode in 38 patients (59%). Of the recurrent episodes, 27 had known CSF leakage (71%) of whom 20 (53%) had previous surgery aiming to close the leak. Nine patients (38%) with known CSF leakage had been vaccinated (23-valent pneumococcal vaccine in 9 patients, meningococcal serogroup C vaccine in 2, meningococcal serogroup A and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine each in 1 patient). Streptococcus pneumoniae was cultured in 33 episodes (51%) and H. influenzae in 11 episodes (17%). The most common pneumococcal serotypes were 3 (4 episodes), 35B, 9N, 38, and 15C (each 2 episodes). Haemophilus influenzae was unencapsulated in all 10 episodes with known capsule type. The outcome was unfavorable in 8 episodes (12%) and no patient died.

Conclusions

Bacterial meningitis in patients with CSF leakage has a high recurrence rate, despite surgical repair or vaccination, and outcome is generally favorable. CSF leakage should be suspected in patients with bacterial meningitis presenting with liquorrhea, recurrent meningitis, or with disease caused by H. influenzae.

A systematic literature review on the prevalence and etiology of meningitis among critically ill and hospitalized patients in India

BACKGROUND

In India, owing to multiple factors, such as insufficient laboratory capacity, poor reporting systems due to limited access to healthcare facilities and limited disease surveillance programmes, the actual disease burden of meningitis is unknown and may be largely under-reported.

OBJECTIVE

A systematic literature review was performed to describe: (a) the prevalence of meningitis; and (b) its etiological pathogen across different regions, age groups and patients with comorbidities.

METHOD

A systematic literature search was conducted between 1990 and 2020 using PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify Indian studies reporting the prevalence rates and etiology of meningitis. A total of 51 studies were included in the final analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 38 studies reported prevalence of meningitis and 21 studies reported data on the etiology of meningitis in India. These studies included mixed patient populations: (a) pyogenic meningitis; (b) meningitis in sick or hospitalized patients with tuberculosis, acute febrile encephalopathy syndrome, septicaemia, invasive pneumococcal disease or respiratory compromise; and (c) meningitis patients with comorbidities. The prevalence of confirmed bacterial meningitis in the pediatric population (0-14 years) ranged between 0.5% and 61.8%. A total of seven studies reported the prevalence of meningitis in patients of all age groups (0-75 years), with prevalence ranging between 8.68% and 78.85%. Cryptococcal meningitis was predominant in patients with positive HIV/AIDS, with a prevalence ranging between 2.09% and 53.1%. Streptococcus pneumoniae was found to be the predominant pathogen causing meningitis across different regions of India, with a frequency ranging from 4% to 61.8% in patients of all age groups.

CONCLUSION

This systematic literature review displayed the possible range of frequency of bacterial meningitis pathogens across a wide variety of age groups in different regions of India. Further studies are warranted to monitor meningitis cases, which may facilitate the development of prevention and treatment strategies in India.

Epidemiological study of bacterial meningitis in Tunisian children, beyond neonatal age, using molecular methods: 2014-2017

BACKGROUND

Since the 1990s, the epidemiology of bacterial meningitis worldwide has changed thanks to vaccination. In Tunisia, the main causative pathogens were Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis and Haemophilus influenzae serotype b (Hib). Only Hib vaccination was available during our study period.

OBJECTIVES

We performed a laboratory case report based-study of suspected bacterial meningitis in Northern Tunisia from January 2014 to June 2017.

METHODS

CSF samples obtained from children beyond neonatal age with suspicion of meningitis were tested by two real time PCRs, targeting pneumococcus, meningococcus and Hib, and conventional methods.

RESULTS

Using real-time PCR, 63 were positive including ten supplementary cases compared to conventional methods. A general decrease of bacterial meningitis cases was demonstrated comparing to previous data. Pneumococcus was predominant (69.84%) followed by meningococcus (28.57%) and Hib (1.59%). The main serotypes were 14, 19F, 6B and 23F for pneumococcus and serogroup B for meningococcus. Most cases occurred during cold season and children under one year were the most affected by bacterial meningitis.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests the predominance of pneumococcal cases. It may provide valuable data on meningitis epidemiology before the introduction of pneumococcal vaccine, which may be useful for future evaluation.

Diagnosis and management of pediatric cerebrospinal fluid leakage secondary to inner ear malformations: A report of 13 cases

OBJECTIVES

Inner ear malformations (IEM) with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage in children is a rare condition, nevertheless, it may lead to meningitis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. The aims of the study were to summarize the clinical characteristic of pediatric CSF leakage secondary to IEM, and to recommend transcanal endoscopic ear surgery (TEES) as an effective surgical technique for the treatment of CSF leakage with IEM in children.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study. Thirteen children and fourteen ear surgery were included. Demographics, detail history, laboratory data, Audio test, and imageological examination results were recorded. All the pediatric patients underwent TEES.

RESULTS

Most (92.31%) of the children presented with a history of rhinorrhea. 69.23% (9/13) of the children had suffered from meningitis, and the other had presented with respiratory tract infections. The follow-up duration ranged from 0.75 years to 5.29 years. Transcanal endoscopic repair of CSF leakage secondary to IEM was the first surgery with a success rate of 92.86% (13 out of 14 cases). A fistula could be found in the stapes footplate in all pediatric patients.

CONCLUSION

Even if there has been no history of meningitis, the diagnosis of CSF leakage in children suffering from unilateral rhinorrhea and recurrent respiratory tract infection is considered. Auditory brainstem response (ABR) and Temporal bone computed tomography (CT) examinations are suggested to identify IEM. The TEES procedure is recommended in our study as the first choice that repairs CSF leakage secondary to IEM.

Oval window perilymph fistula in child with recurrent meningitis and unilateral hearing loss

A 2-year-old boy presented to Ears, Nose and Throat (ENT) surgeons with unilateral hearing loss. Following a prodrome of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), he developed two episodes of pneumococcal meningitis in quick succession. This case demonstrates an unusual cause of perilymph fistula diagnosed on imaging and confirmed surgically. He had failed the Newborn Hearing Screening Programme and was therefore referred to audiology, who confirmed profound sensorineural hearing loss in the right ear. MRI showed incomplete partitioning (type 1) of the right cochlea, suggesting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak from the region of the stapes. Exploratory tympanotomy confirmed this, and proceeded to CSF leak repair, obliteration of the Eustachian tube, subtotal petrosectomy, abdominal fat grafting and blind sac closure. Although middle ear effusions are common; particularly in children with recent URTI, the possibility of otogenic CSF leak needs to be considered, especially in cases of recurrent meningitis.

Readmissions after hospital care for meningitis in the United States

BACKGROUND

Our objectives were to (1) characterize patient and clinical characteristics of adults hospitalized with meningitis; (2) describe meningitis hospitalization outcomes, including 30- and 90-day readmissions; and (3) determine whether clinical, patient, or index hospitalization characteristics are associated with readmission and readmission outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective study of the 2014 National Readmissions Database extracted data on hospitalized adults with a principal diagnosis of meningitis and examined hospitalization outcomes using descriptive statistics. Logistic regression models were built to determine whether characteristics were associated with 30- or 90-day readmissions.

RESULTS

For the 30-day readmission analyses, 18,883 adults qualified. Meningitis hospitalizations commonly involved adults 25 to 54 years of age who were insured by private carriers. The readmission rates were 7.0% at 30 days and 11.4% at 90 days. Readmission was associated with greater comorbidity burden (2 conditions: adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.60, range 1.24-2.08; 3 conditions: AOR = 1.92, range 1.43-2.58; 4+ conditions: AOR = 2.68, range 2.04-3.51 vs 0 or 1 condition), public insurance (Medicare: AOR = 1.85, range 1.30-2.62; Medicaid: AOR = 1.48, range 1.16-1.90 vs private insurance), and medical error (AOR = 1.43, range 1.07-1.91). Readmissions were most often for meningitis, septicemia, or medical complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Readmission after hospitalization for meningitis is associated with both fixed and modifiable factors. More research is needed to determine which post-meningitis readmissions are preventable.

Post-Traumatic Meningitis Is a Diagnostic Challenging Time: A Systematic Review Focusing on Clinical and Pathological Features

Post-traumatic meningitis is a dreadful condition that presents additional challenges, in terms of both diagnosis and management, when compared with community-acquired cases. Post-traumatic meningitis refers to a meningeal infection causally related to a cranio-cerebral trauma, regardless of temporal proximity. The PICO (participants, intervention, control, and outcomes) question was as follows: "Is there an association between traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic meningitis?" The present systematic review was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review (PRISMA) standards. Studies examining post-traumatic meningitis, paying particular attention to victims of traumatic brain injury, were included. Post-traumatic meningitis represents a high mortality disease. Diagnosis may be difficult both because clinical signs are nonspecific and blurred and because of the lack of pathognomonic laboratory markers. Moreover, these markers increase with a rather long latency, thus not allowing a prompt diagnosis, which could improve patients' outcome. Among all the detectable clinical signs, the appearance of cranial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage (manifesting as rhinorrhea or otorrhea) should always arouse suspicion of meningitis. On one hand, microbiological exams on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which represent the gold standard for the diagnosis, require days to get reliable results. On the other hand, radiological exams, especially CT of the brain, could represent an alternative for early diagnosis. An update on these issues is certainly of interest to focus on possible predictors of survival and useful tools for prompt diagnosis.

Recurrent Pneumococcal Meningitis Secondary to Nasoethmoidal Meningocele

Since the widespread introduction of the conjugate pneumococcal vaccine and subsequent decline of invasive pneumococcal disease in children, a significant proportion of children with pneumococcal meningitis are identified as having an underlying immunodeficiency or predisposing anatomic abnormality. We present 3 cases of recurrent pneumococcal meningitis where detailed neuro-imaging revealed subtle anterior base of skull defects not detected on initial investigations.

Endoscopic Surgical Repair of a Giant, Postoperative, Neglected Meningoencephalocele

Meningoencephalocele is a rare and potentially lethal disease, requiring early diagnosis and treatment. A 30-year-old male patient was diagnosed with a massive meningoencephalocele. His medical history included cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea since the age of 7 years, which was attributed to right eye mining during infancy due to Coats disease. Following failed attempts of open surgical repair and CSF diversion during childhood, no further attempts of surgical management were made. He presented a long history of recurrent episodes of meningitis, resulting in long-lasting hospitalization in the intensive care unit. Eventually, he underwent surgical repair through an endoscopic multilayer approach. Subsequent endoscopic and radiological assessment demonstrated no recurrence during a follow-up period of one year. Endoscopic treatment is highly successful. An effective and definite surgical repair is of paramount importance in order to avoid life-threatening complications, improve patient’s and caregiver’s quality of life, and avoid unnecessary health-system costs.

Secondary encephalocele in an adult leading to subdural empyema

Brain abscesses are an uncommon but potentially fatal infection. They can spread directly from an adjacent source or hematogenously from a distant source. Encephaloceles represent a rare form of neural tube defects that can potentially be complicated by the development of meningitis or brain abscess. We report a case of a 63-year-old female who presented with bilateral lower extremity weakness and was ultimately found to have a Streptococcus pneumoniae subdural empyema and an associated frontal lobe encephalocele extending through the left frontal sinus. She was treated with surgical drainage, intravenous antimicrobials, and ultimately surgical repair of the encephalocele. This report highlights a unique presentation of brain abscess. Clinicians should be aware of this potential infectious complication of a neural tube defect.

Human genetics of meningococcal infections

Neisseria meningitidis is a leading cause of bacterial septicaemia and meningitis worldwide. Meningococcal disease is rare but can be life threatening with a tendency to affect children. Many studies have investigated the role of human genetics in predisposition to N. meningitidis infection. These have identified both rare single-gene mutations as well as more common polymorphisms associated with meningococcal disease susceptibility and severity. These findings provide clues to the pathogenesis of N. meningitidis, the basis of host susceptibility to infection and to the aetiology of severe disease. From the multiple discoveries of monogenic complement deficiencies to the associations of complement factor H and complement factor H-related three polymorphisms to meningococcal disease, the complement pathway is highlighted as being central to the genetic control of meningococcal disease. This review aims to summarise the current understanding of the host genetic basis of meningococcal disease with respect to the different stages of meningococcal infection.

Clival defect in the pathogenesis of recurrent meningitis: a case report and literature review

Background

Meningitis is a life-threatening infection often associated with high morbidity. Recurrent bacterial meningitis poses a clinical challenge, both clinically and diagnostically. To prevent further recurrences, the underlying causes of recurrent bacterial meningitis should be investigated intensively.

Case presentation

Here, we aim to present a patient referred to our clinic with rhinorrhea and found to the Staphylococcus aureus meningitis related to a clival defect. The patient reported no history of trauma, surgery, or brain neoplasm, and the cerebrospinal fluid leakage was classified as spontaneous. The patient had two episodes of meningitis in the last 4 years, but etiologic data of the previous episodes were absent. A pneumococcal vaccine was administered following her second attack, suggesting a possible Staphylococcus aureus infection due to altered colonization in the sinuses. She was successfully treated with linezolid but refused surgery to correct the defect and was discharged without neurologic sequelae.

Conclusion

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leakage from the clivus which could provoke recurrent meningitis is a rare situation. In conjunction with appropriate rapid antibiotherapy for the prevention of recurrent meningitis, the removal of anatomical risk factors should be a principal aim. Effective surgical procedures prevent recurrences.

Repair of encephalocele and cerebrospinal fluid leak with the use of bone morphogenetic protein: A case report

Background:

Encephaloceles are rare phenomena which occur when brain parenchyma herniates through a skull defect which, if left untreated, may lead to significant issues such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistulas, meningitis, and intractable seizures. Due to the rarity and variety in size and location of encephaloceles, no standard technique has been established for the resultant defect. Herein, we demonstrate the safe and effective use of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) in the repair of CSF leak caused by encephalocele.

Case Description:

A retrospective chart review was conducted on a 50-year-old female who presented with sudden onset spontaneous right nostril CSF leak due to the right lateral sphenoid sinus recess encephalocele, for which she underwent surgical repair. After resecting the encephalocele, cadaver crushed bone was used to fill the skull base defect. Following, an absorbable sponge from the extra-small BMP kit was cut in half and soaked with recombinant human BMP-2 (rhBMP-2) before being laid over the bony defect. On postoperative clinic visits at 2 weeks and at 3 months, the patient demonstrated good recovery without evidence of recurrent CSF leak. On follow-up computed tomography imaging at 9 months’ postsurgery, there was no evidence of recurrent CSF leak or encephalocele, infection, ectopic bone formation, excessive inflammation, or neoplasm.

Conclusion:

In this case, we demonstrate the successful use of BMP for the repair of CSF leak due to encephalocele. It is our extrapolation that the pro-inflammatory properties of rhBMP-2 lead to the prevention of recurrent CSF leak.

Cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea secondary to congenital inner ear dysplasia: diagnosis and management of 18 cases

OBJECTIVE

To describe the characteristics of the clinical presentation, diagnosis, surgical methods, and outcomes of patients with otogenic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage secondary to congenital inner ear dysplasia.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of 18 patients with otogenic CSF leakage secondary to inner ear dysplasia who underwent surgery in our group from 2007 to 2017 and had a follow-up of at least 4 months. The average length of follow-up was three years. The characteristics of the clinical presentations of all patients, such as self-reported symptoms, radiographic findings, surgical approaches and methods of repair, position of the leakage during surgery, and postoperative course, including the success rate of surgery, are presented.

RESULTS

The patients presented mostly with typical symptoms of meningitis, severe hearing impairment, and CSF otorrhea or rhinorrhea. All 18 patients had at least one previous episode of meningitis accompanied by a severe hearing impairment. The preoperative audiograms of 17 patients showed profound sensorineural hearing loss, and one patient had conductive hearing loss. Twelve patients presented with an initial onset of otorrhea, and two had accompanying rhinorrhea. Six patients complained of rhinorrhea, two of whom were misdiagnosed with CSF rhinorrhea and underwent transnasal endoscopy at another hospital. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images can reveal developments in the inner ear, such as expansion of a vestibular cyst, unclear structure of the semicircular canal or cochlea, or signs of effusion in the middle ear or mastoid, which strongly suggest the possibility of CSF otorrhea. The children in the study suffered more severe dysplasia than adults. All 18 patients had CSF leakage identified during surgery. The most common defect sites were in the stapes footplates (55.6%), and 38.9% of patients had a leak around the oval window. One patient had a return of CSF otorrhea during the postoperative period, which did not re-occur following a second repair.

CONCLUSIONS

CSF otorrhea due to congenital inner ear dysplasia is more severe in children than in adults. The most common symptoms were meningitis, hearing impairment, and CSF otorrhea or rhinorrhea. HRCT has high diagnostic accuracy for this disease. The most common fistula site was around the oval window, including the stapes footplates and the annular ligament.

Infection drives meningeal engraftment by inflammatory monocytes that impairs CNS immunity

Tissue macrophages have an embryonic origin and can be replenished in some tissues under steady-state conditions by blood monocytes. However, little is known about the residency and properties of infiltrating monocytes after an inflammatory challenge. The meninges of the central nervous system (CNS) are populated by a dense network of macrophages that act as resident immune sentinels. Here we show that, following lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infection, resident meningeal macrophages (MMs) acquired viral antigen and interacted directly with infiltrating cytotoxic T lymphocytes, which led to macrophage depletion. Concurrently, the meninges were infiltrated by inflammatory monocytes that engrafted the meningeal niche and remained in situ for months after viral clearance. This engraftment led to interferon-γ-dependent functional changes in the pool of MMs, including loss of bacterial and immunoregulatory sensors. Collectively, these data indicate that peripheral monocytes can engraft the meninges after an inflammatory challenge, imprinting the compartment with long-term defects in immune function.

Recurrent meningitis in children: etiologies, outcome, and lessons to learn

PURPOSE

Recurrent meningitis in children is a rare condition. However, its early recognition is important in order to prevent serious complications. This study aims to review cases of recurrent meningitis in children.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study that included children diagnosed with recurrent meningitis and who were followed at child neurology clinic at the Jordan University Hospital from January 2001 to June 2017.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients were included (nine males and four females). Age of first episode of meningitis ranged from 2 months to 9.5 years. The delay in diagnosis of the underlying cause after the first episode ranged from 6 months to 2.5 years. Underlying causes included inner ear malformation in one patient, skull fractures in two, and dermal sinuses (thoracic spinal and occipital dermal sinus) in two patients. No identifiable cause was found in eight patients. Streptococcus pneumoniae was identified in four (31%) patients, Staphylococcus aureus in two (15%), and no organism was isolated in seven (54%). Three patients (23.1%) developed neurological sequel including developmental delay, limb spasticity, and epilepsy. Two patients had sensorineural hearing loss related to meningitis, and two patients had sensorineural hearing loss mostly related to their original disease.

CONCLUSION

A detailed history, examination, and thorough investigations are necessary to determine the underlying cause of recurrent meningitis. In addition, in patients with positive CSF bacterial culture, finding the underlying etiology is very likely.

Outcome of uncorrected CSF leak and consequent recurrent meningitis in a patient: a case presentation and literature review

Purpose: Post-traumatic CSF leaks are a complication in 2% of all head injuries. Majority of these patients will recover spontaneously. Whilst recent literature has predominantly centred on CSF leaks and their general investigations and management thereof, there is a paucity of information when it comes to those patients who have persistent post-traumatic CSF leaks, as well as the complication of recurrent meningitis. We present a patient with a persistent post-traumatic CSF leak who presented with recurrent bacterial meningitis thirteen times- the highest documented amount in an adult. We reviewed the literature with regards to the above as well.Material and Methods: We reviewed a vast array of journal articles on the topic of CSF leaks from the PubMed resource, and focused this review specifically on those that documented patients who had uncorrected CSF leaks and their outcomes.Results: Complications include meningitis and rhinorrhoea with brain abscesses and pneumocephalus occurring less frequently. Mortality has been documented to be 9% after 1 year. The rates of persistent CSF leaks were within the same range with an average calculated rate of 21%. Whilst meningitis was recorded and is common, it was not stipulated whether the incidences were recurrent.Conclusion: Post-traumatic persistent CSF leaks remain a therapeutic challenge and continued follow-up with early surgical intervention is highly recommended to prevent complications. One of the more serious complications of a persistent leak is meningitis. The long-term outcomes of recurrent meningitis could include cumulative focal neurological deficitis and cognitive impairment.

Recurrent Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis and Mondini dysplasia: Association or causation?

Mondini dysplasia is a developmental disorder of the inner ear structures and it is a rare cause of recurrent bacterial meningitis in children. A 10-year-old boy presented with acute febrile encephalopathy and right ear pain. In the past, he had suffered from two distinct episodes of pyogenic meningitis. On examination, he had signs of meningeal irritation and right ear sensorineural deafness. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and computerized tomography of the temporal bone was suggestive of Mondini dysplasia in the right ear. Our case highlights the need for (a) screening of hearing loss at the bedside by Rinne and Weber test in case of recurrent bacterial meningitis (b) searching for an underlying inner ear malformation if there is a hearing loss.

Single-Stage Combined Craniofacial Repair for Frontoethmoidal Meningoencephalocele

INTRODUCTION

Frontoethmoidal meningoencephalocele (FMEC) is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by herniation of brain tissue and meninges through a defect in the cranium and associated with facial dysmorphism. Treatment modalities include extra cranial, transcranial, or combined craniofacial approaches. The combined approach is considered the best treatment choice.

METHODS

Twelve patients with FMEC aging from 6 months to 4 years were treated by single-stage combined craniofacial approach between July 2011 and July 2015. They were followed up for evaluation of outcome and detection of complications.

RESULTS

Seven patients (58.3%) were males and 5 patients (41.7%) were females. Eight patients (66.7%) were less than 2 years while 4 patients (33.3%) were between 2 and 4 years. The main presentations were external mass, telecanthus and hypertelorbitism, radiologically, frontobasal bone defect and herniated dural sac with brain tissue were detected in all patients. Excision of the mass with dural repair, craniofacial reconstruction, and medial canthopexy were done for all patients. Orbital translocation was done for 8 patients (75%), nasal reconstruction for 7 patients (58.3%), while dacryocystorhinostomy in 3 patients (25%). Venticuloperitoneal shunt was done before correction of FMEC in one patient (8.3%). The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 48 months with mean 29.2 months. The esthetic results were satisfactory in 9 patients (75%). Ugly facial scars were recorded in 3 patients (25%).

CONCLUSION

Early surgical management for FMEC is advisable to avoid deleterious effects on facial growth. Meticulous perioperative care is important for successful surgery. The authors recommend combined craniofacial approach to achieve good outcome and decrease the incidence of complications.

Adult Patients with Pneumococcal Meningitis at a Neurosurgical Neurologic Center: Different Predisposing Conditions?

BACKGROUND

In previous studies of pneumococcal meningitis in adults within general hospitals or national cohorts, the most common predisposing conditions were otitis media, sinusitis, pneumonia, immunosuppression, alcoholism, and diabetes. The epidemiology of pneumococcal meningitis is changing because of the use of vaccines in childhood, and antibiotic resistance has increased.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the cases of patients with diagnoses of pneumococcal meningitis proved by an inflammatory cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with a positive culture, treated during a period of 14 years at an adult neurosurgical neurologic referral center. Our aim was to define their clinical course, predisposing conditions, antimicrobial susceptibilities, and outcome.

RESULTS

We reviewed the cases of 30 patients, 17 men and 13 women, with a mean age of 36.7 years. Fourteen patients (46.6%) had previous neurosurgery, 12 patients (40%) had CSF fistula, 8 had remote head trauma, and 8 also presented recurrent meningitis. Resistance to ceftriaxone or vancomycin was less than 5%, and penicillin resistance was 53%. Eight patients (26.7%) had died. An increased risk of death was associated with coma at admission, septic shock, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, mechanical ventilation, thrombocytopenia, and a low CSF opening pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that patients with pneumococcal meningitis treated at neurosurgical neurologic centers have different predisposing conditions with severe disease and high mortality, thus prompting us to recommend aggressive pneumococcal vaccination in patients with CSF leaks and severe head trauma. Prospective studies to identify which neurosurgical patients may benefit in the long term from a pneumococcal vaccine are urgently needed.

Recurrent CSF Rhinorrhea Misdiagnosed as Chronic Allergic Rhinitis with Subsequent Development of Bacterial Meningitis

INTRODUCTION

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea results from an abnormal communication of the dura mater to the nasal mucosa. The majority of cases of CSF rhinorrhea are the result of trauma or surgery involving the skull base. Spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea is a rare clinical entity with increased risk of ascending infection. Delay in diagnosis places the patient at risk of developing meningitis.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 36-year-old African American female with significant medical history of obesity and hypertension presented to the emergency department with headache, altered level of consciousness, fever, and neck stiffness. Previously, the patient was diagnosed with chronic allergic sinusitis by multiple providers. Physical exam findings and laboratory tests were consistent with bacterial meningitis. The patient was admitted and started on appropriate antibiotic therapy. The patient continued to complain of persistent unilateral clear nasal drainage. The initial report from the computerized tomography scan of the sinuses indicated findings consistent with chronic sinusitis. Magnetic resonance imaging of the orbits revealed findings consistent with CSF rhinorrhea. Otolaryngology was consulted for surgical intervention.

CONCLUSION

Suspected CSF rhinorrhea should prompt immediate biochemical and radiologic evaluation and surgical consultation. CSF rhinorrhea places patients at risk of developing bacterial meningitis.