What is the name of the condition when the meninges of the brain are inflamed?

Answer 1

Meningitis is the name of the condition in which the meninges of the brain and spinal cord become inflamed. The meninges are a membrane system meant to protect the central nervous system. When inflamed, the meninges disrupt the proper function of the brain and spinal cord. The three most common causes of meningitis are bacterial infection, viral infection, and fungal infection.

Bacterial meningitis is the most severe, and is most commonly caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. Symptoms include fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea and vomiting, intolerance to bright light or loud noises, altered mental status, and lethargy. Later stages of infection can lead to seizures and death.

Bacterial meningitis can be effectively treated by a variety of antibiotics, but treatment must begin early to ensure the best chance of recovery. This condition is contagious, and can be spread by the same means in which influenza or the common cold are spread.

Viral meningitis is the most common cause of meningitis, and is more mild than bacterial meningitis. For those with a healthy immune system, viral meningitis typically clears up within two weeks. Typically, symptoms are similar to bacterial meningitis, and manifest 3 - 7 days after infection. Viral meningitis is contagious, and is typically spread by contact with infected saliva, mucus, and stool.

Fungal meningitis is relatively uncommon, presents with the same symptoms as bacterial meningitis, and can be fatal if left untreated. Patients with fungal meningitis are treated with antifungal medication. This form of meningitis typically occurs in patients who have a weakened immune system.

All forms of meningitis must be treated as a medical emergency because of the similarity in symptoms between fatal and nonfatal variations. Meningitis is diagnosed through the examination of cerebrospinal fluid acquired by a spinal tap.