Medium urgency
CommonModerately severe
Inflammation of the meninges that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It is often called meningoencephalitis because it is accompanied by an inflammatory reaction of the central nervous system. It is caused by a bacterial infection, among which the following may be highlighted: Meningococcus, pneumococcus, group B streptococcus and Haemophilus influenzae. It typically manifests with fever, headache, rigidity of the neck muscles and a change in mental state.
It is diagnosed by clinical history, physical examination and complementary tests, such as blood and cerebrospinal fluid tests and cultures. Treatment is based on intravenously administering antibiotics early, preferably in a hospital. It is considered a medical emergency as it can cause death if the correct early treatment is not performed.
It is diagnosed by clinical history, physical examination and complementary tests, such as blood and cerebrospinal fluid tests and cultures. Treatment is based on intravenously administering antibiotics early, preferably in a hospital. It is considered a medical emergency as it can cause death if the correct early treatment is not performed.
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Dr. Oscar Garcia-Esquirol
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