Multidimensional analysis of costs and outcomes in a Colombian cohort of pediatric <i>Streptococcus pneumoniae</i> meningitis cases (2017–2022)

<i>Streptococcus pneumoniae</i> meningitis poses a significant public health challenge, imposing substantial burdens on healthcare systems. This study analyzed the costs and outcomes of pneumococcal meningitis in a Colombian cohort of children from 2017 to 2022, using correspondence analysis and cost assessment to explore the impact of vaccination. A retrospective cohort study was conducted, analyzing children under 18 years diagnosed with pneumococcal meningitis. A total of 55 cases were analyzed in this cohort study, which, while representative of confirmed cases in the country, reflects the rarity of the disease and poses statistical limitations. Direct healthcare costs were calculated in 2023 USD, and data were assessed using cluster and multiple correspondence analyses (MCA) to evaluate relationships between vaccination status, serotypes, clinical outcomes, and costs. The MCA revealed two main dimensions that collectively explained 31.2% of the total variance. Median direct healthcare costs were ~$2,900 (range ~$500–$21,000), with ICU admission as the primary cost driver. PCV13 vaccination correlated with lower overall patient costs and better clinical outcomes. MCA revealed clustering of vaccinated patients with favorable outcomes and reduced costs, while unvaccinated patients aligned with severe outcomes and higher expenses. This study explores the clinical and economic impact of pneumococcal meningitis in pediatric patients, highlighting the potential protective role of PCV13 vaccination. MCA provided an exploratory framework for examining relationships between vaccination status, serotypes, costs, and outcomes.