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Inflammation of the brain and the membranes of the spinal cord caused due to an infection by bacteria or viruses is called meningitis
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Meningitis can occur in neonates, infants, children, adolescents, as well as in adulthood. However, the responsible organisms differ at each stage
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Conditions like pneumonia, sinusitis, inflammation of the middle ear and an immunocompromised state may predispose to meningitis
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Various clinical manifestations can be seen in this condition like fever, headache and most importantly, rigidity at the neck region
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The patient’s consciousness can range from lethargic to comatose, and seizures or convulsions may be seen (especially in children)
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Other clinical manifestations like nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to bright light (photophobia) are also commonly seen
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Knee pain on flexing the hip and automatic knee or hip flexion when the neck is flexed are signs that can help in confirming the diagnosis
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In certain types of meningitis, a diffuse rash can be seen over the trunk, the lower limbs and also the eyes (in the conjunctiva)
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If not treated timely, certain complications like cerebral abscess formation, build-up of fluid in the brain and seizures can occur
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The cerebrospinal fluid is analysed to find the cause of and confirm meningitis. Antibiotic therapy is recommended in case of bacterial meningitis