Meningitis
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Meningitis Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by various pathogens or non-infectious factors, and its severity ranges from mild to life-threatening. Below are concise notes on meningitis, covering its causes, types, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. 1. Causes Infectious : Bacterial : Common pathogens include Streptococcus pneumoniae , Neisseria meningitidis , Haemophilus influenzae type b, and Listeria monocytogenes . Bacterial meningitis is often severe and requires urgent treatment. Viral : Enteroviruses (e.g., echovirus, coxsackievirus), herpesviruses, and others. Typically milder than bacterial but can be serious. Fungal : Caused by fungi like Cryptococcus or Histoplasma , often in immunocompromised individuals. Parasitic : Rare, caused by organisms like Naegleria fowleri (from contaminated water). Non-infectious : Caused by cancer, autoimmune diseases, head tr...