NEUROLOGY
Etiology
Bacterial: N. meningitidis, S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae
Viral: enteroviruses
Fungal: cryptococcus
Pathogenesis
Infection → inflammation of meninges → ↑ ICP and neuronal injury
Clinical Features
Fever
Neck stiffness
Photophobia
Altered mental status
Petechial rash (meningococcal)
Treatment
Empiric IV antibiotics immediately
Dexamethasone (pneumococcal)
Antivirals if viral suspected
Prophylaxis for close contacts (meningococcal)