Why Meningaitis Have to Deform Children

There are many causes of meningitis, and you may be wondering why it deforms children. This article discusses inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, learning disabilities, hearing loss, and vision problems. These can all be caused by this infection. But what can you do to prevent these symptoms? Read on to discover what you can do to avoid meningitis in your child. We will also discuss some treatments.

Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord

Cerebrospinal fluid is the protective fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and brain. Tests that measure cerebrospinal fluid levels can identify meningitis or other inflammatory disorders. Cerebrospinal fluid is obtained through a needle inserted into the lower back. This fluid is tested for bacteria, blood, and proteins. It can also reveal any signs of encephalitis or inflammation of the meninges.

Learning disabilities

A new study suggests that meningitis deforms brain development, resulting in learning disabilities and other problems in adulthood. The study compared postmeningitic children with control children, who were graded, sex, and reading IQ matched. Depressed language skills were associated with later educational difficulties. Neuropsychological principles were used to interpret the findings. While the findings are still preliminary, the importance of early diagnosis and treatment cannot be underestimated.

Hearing loss

One recent study analyzed the impact of bacterial meningitis on hearing loss in children. A total of 74 children (57 males and 45 females) developed sensorineural hearing loss during the course of their disease. Of those children with hearing loss, seven were mild, five were moderate and one was profound. Boys were more likely to develop hearing loss than girls, and 30.7% had sensorineural hearing loss while 16.7% were affected with no loss. The study authors identified five factors that may increase the risk of hearing loss in children with meningitis. One was a higher cerebrospinal fluid glucose level and another was Streptococcus pneumonia. All cases fell into an at-risk category.

Vision problems

The incidence of meningococcal disease in children is low and recognized, but meningitis remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in childhood. A 3-year-old boy was hospitalized for a parieto-occipital infarction after contracting meningococcal meningitis, which led to a permanent loss of vision. This resulted in serious implications for his development.

Neurological issues

Among the most serious side effects of meningitis is a change in the level of consciousness. This complication is less common in children under six years of age, but it can still have serious consequences, particularly for infants. Moreover, children younger than 12 months are at risk of developing subarachnoid effusion, hydrocephalus, and hearing loss. This condition can lead to a variety of neurological problems, including hearing loss, speech deformity, and intellectual disability. In addition, children with bacterial meningitis are less likely to have a normal neurological exam at the time of discharge and at the seven-year follow-up.

Seizures

In 115 cases of seizures, meningitis was suspected. Of those, 105 children were comatose or obtunded on the initial visit, while the other 10 showed normal levels of consciousness. Two children had viral meningitis, but the other 10 had more straightforward indications for lumbar puncture, including petechial rash, multiple seizures, and nuchal rigidity.

CT scans

CT scans are not the only way to detect meningitis. These tests are also useful in detecting underlying conditions, including meningitis. CT scans produce detailed pictures of the inside of the body. Children generally experience no pain during the procedure, although some may find it difficult to stay still for the scan. The entire procedure is done in a specialized room in which a technologist can watch the child.

Treatment

The most common form of bacterial meningitis, in children younger than three, is called nonproliferative bacterial meningitis. This type of infection results in high fevers and deformities. Children with this infection may have a range of symptoms, including isolated weakness in one limb, a visual deficit, or a speech impediment. The disease can also cause permanent deformities.