meningiiti

Meningiti, the Finnish term for meningitis, refers to the inflammation of the meninges, the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can arise from infections with bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, or from non-infectious conditions such as chemical irritation or autoimmune processes. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to reduce the risk of serious complications.

Bacterial meningitis is the most dangerous form and is caused by organisms such as Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae, requiring urgent antibiotics. Viral meningitis, often due to enteroviruses, is more common and typically milder. Fungal meningitis, such as cryptococcosis in immunocompromised individuals, and rare parasitic meningitis occur in specific risk groups.

Symptoms commonly include abrupt fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, nausea, and confusion. In infants, irritability and poor feeding may be observed. Risk factors include young age, immune suppression, recent head injury or neurosurgery, and living in crowded settings with outbreaks of meningitis.

Diagnosis relies on analysis of cerebrospinal fluid obtained by lumbar puncture, with measures such as cell count, protein, glucose, Gram stain, culture, and PCR. Imaging may be used before lumbar puncture if signs of raised intracranial pressure are present. Treatment starts promptly with empiric antibiotics for suspected bacterial meningitis; antiviral therapy is used for suspected herpes simplex infection; antifungal therapy for fungal meningitis. Adjunctive corticosteroids may be used in certain cases.

Prognosis varies by cause and speed of treatment; bacterial meningitis can be life-threatening and may cause lasting deficits, while viral meningitis is often recoverable. Prevention includes vaccination for meningococcal, pneumococcal, and Hib bacteria and good hygiene.