Meningeal Inflammation: An Overview

By SWA

 

What is meningitis? Meningitis is the inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges. The condition can be caused by various infections and other factors.

What is the inflammation of the meninges called? The inflammation of the meninges is called meningitis.

For more detailed information, visit the Brain and Spine Foundation: Meningitis Fact Sheet.

Causes of Meningitis Meningitis is an infection and inflammation of the fluid and three membranes (meninges) protecting the brain and spinal cord. These membranes include:

  • Dura mater: The tough outer membrane.
  • Pia mater: The delicate inner layer.

Viral infections are the most common cause of meningitis, but bacterial infections can also cause acute bacterial meningitis. Bacteria may enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain and spinal cord or directly invade the meninges through an ear or sinus infection, a skull fracture, or, rarely, after certain surgeries.

For further reading, refer to the Mayo Clinic: Meningitis Symptoms and Causes.

Symptoms of Meningeal Inflammation Common symptoms of meningitis include:

  • Fever
  • Neck pain/stiffness
  • Photophobia (sensitivity to light)

Additional non-specific symptoms can include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Delirium
  • Irritability
  • Nausea/vomiting

Signs of increased intracranial pressure, such as altered mental status, neurologic deficits, and seizures, indicate a poor prognosis.

More Information For updates and more detailed discussions, refer to Mayo Clinic News Network: Meningitis Discussion.

Stay tuned for more scientific evidence as it becomes available.

Note: By reading my blog, you acknowledge that I do not provide medical diagnoses or treatments. The information provided is meant to answer frequently asked questions and is gathered from reputable scientific papers. 

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