What is the role of CT in meningitis?

Exclude contraindications to lumbar puncture Aid in diagnosis of meningitis or identification of other causative pathologies Evaluate for conditions predisposing to meningitis (skull fracture, sinus or mastoid infection, congenital anomalies) Identify and monitor...

When should CT scan be performed before LP in meningitis?

CT imaging is important when raised ICP suspected: Lumbar puncture may precipitate cerebral herniation Should be performed if in all patients presenting with: Focal neurologic deficits (excluding cranial nerve palsies) New-onset seizures Severely altered mental status...

Which patients with meningitis should be admitted to critical care?

Intensive care teams should be involved early in patients, given the high mortality rate and predisposition to rapid deterioration  Suggested criteria for intensive care admission include: Rapidly evolving rash GCS <12 or less or a drop of >2 points (Intubation...