Bacterial meningitis (Paediatrics)

Infection of the layers that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges.

The bacterium responsible will vary depending on the child's age and geographic location. The most common are streptococcus agalactiae, E. coli, meningococcus, pneumococcus and H. influenzae.

It generally presents with fever, headache, vomits, seizures and a stiff neck. In small children, it may manifest with a state of prostration, irritability, rejection of food or a bulging fontanelle.

Diagnosis is clinical, through reviewing the patient's medical history and a physical examination and it will be confirmed by analysing the cerebrospinal fluid. It is a serious condition that generally requires admission to the ICU.