Diagnosis

Early diagnosis and treatment are very important. Classic signs of meningitis include sudden onset of fever, headache and stiff neck. These signs are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and altered mental status. Older children and adults may experience a skin rash. In young children, the signs may be more subtle and my include inactivity, irritability, vomiting, or poor feeding.

If meningitis is suspected, samples of blood or cerebrospinal fluid are collected and sent to the laboratory for testing. It is important to know the specific cause of meningitis because the severity of illness and the treatment will differ depending on the cause. In the case of bacterial meningitis, for example, antibiotics can help prevent severe illness and reduce the spread of infection from person to person.

Bacterial Meningitis

If bacteria are present, they can be grown (cultured). Growing the bacteria in the laboratory is important for confirming the presence of bacteria and for identifying the specific type of bacteria that is causing the infection.

Viral Meningitis

The specific causes of meningitis may be determined by tests used to identify the virus in samples collected from the patient.

Fungal Meningitis

To confirm fungal meningitis, specific lab tests can be performed, depending on the type of fungus suspected.