Epidemiological Study of Meningitis at Fayoum Fever Hospital

Background: Meningitis is a critical infectious disease with various clinical presentations. This study aimed to study the demographic, clinico-etiological and laboratory characteristics of patients with acute meningitis in Alfayoum fever hospital. Methods: This cross sectional study encompassed 42 patients with suspected acute meningitis. A retrospective approach was employed to review patient records. Detailed clinical and laboratory investigations, including CSF analysis and radiological assessments, were conducted. Treatment regimens were determined to individual patient needs. Results: The study included a diverse range of patients, with ages ranging from 2 months to 72 years. Common clinical symptoms included fever (92.9%), headache (92.9%), irritability (69.0%), and vomiting (54.8%). CSF appearance was predominantly clear in 59.5% patients and turbid in 40.5%. Laboratory findings showed elevated CRP and low CSF/serum glucose ratio in 9 patients. The meningitic patients with no organisms in all CSF examinations were 73.8%, Strept.Pneumoniae in 21.4% of patients, Staph.Aureus in 2.3% of patients and Haemophylus Influenza in 2.3% of patients. Outcomes varied, with 26 patients discharged, 7 referred to a tertiary center and 3 unfortunate deaths. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study at Fayoum Fever Hospital highlights the universal susceptibility to acute meningitis and underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance in diagnosis and management. Diverse patients’ residences, seasonal variations, common symptoms, and variable CSF characteristics underscore the complexity of the disease. Varied treatment regimens call for personalized approaches, while a 7.1% mortality rate emphasizes the need for early intervention and comprehensive healthcare strategies.