Alternate Names: Staphylococcal meningitis

Causes and Risks:

Meningitis caused by S. aureus or S. epidermidis (staphylococcus) usually develops as a complication of a diagnostic or surgical procedure, or as an infection spread by the blood from another site.

Risk factors include recent neurosurgery, previous meningitis associated with CSF shunt, infective endocarditis, or previous brain abscess.

The incidence is very low.

Prevention: Prophylactic (preventive) use of antibiotics in high-risk people before diagnostic or surgical procedures may help to reduce risk in certain situations. Discuss this with your doctor.

Symptoms:

• fever
• severe headache
• nausea and vomiting
• stiff neck
• photophobia (sensitivity to light)
• rash

Signs and Tests:

• elevated white blood cell count in blood and CSF
• CSF stain showing bacteria and white blood cells
• CSF culture growing staphylococcus
• blood culture growing staphylococcus

Treatment: Antibiotic therapy should be started as soon as possible. Supportive measures include treatment for dehydration.

Prognosis: Early treatment can improve the outcome.

Complications: These patients may develop a brain abscess, fulminant meningitis, or infections at other body sites. Excessive bleeding and shock can develop.

Call your health care provider if symptoms of meningitis are present. This disorder can be life-threatening!