Best Meningitis Doctors in Bangalore

Meningitis, a potentially life-threatening condition, is characterised by the inflammation of the protective membranes (meninges) enveloping the brain and spinal cord. It is usually instigated by bacterial, viral, or fungal pathogens that infiltrate the central nervous system (CNS) through various routes. The routes of infection can extend from the bloodstream to the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.

Apollo Hospitals Bangalore hosts some of the best Meningitis specialists and doctors for Meningitis treatment who deliver top-tier care for every patient.

Types/Stages of Meningitis

Meningitis can manifest in three distinct forms:

• Acute Stage: Characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms, rapid progression, and potentially life-threatening complications, particularly in bacterial meningitis.

• Subacute Stage: Refers to a slower onset of symptoms over days to weeks, seen primarily in viral and some fungal meningitis cases. Symptoms may initially be mild but can progress if left untreated.

• Chronic Stage: Represents persistent inflammation and ongoing symptoms lasting weeks to months, often seen in chronic fungal or tuberculous meningitis. This stage may involve repeated exacerbations and remissions.

Symptoms of Meningitis

Meningitis can present itself through a variety of symptoms such as:

• A persistent and severe headache

• High and persistent fever

• Stiffness in the neck due to inflammation in the meninges

• Altered mental status leading to confusion or disorientation

• Nausea and vomiting due to increased intracranial pressure

• Sensitivity towards light or photophobia

Tests to Diagnose Meningitis

Diagnosing Meningitis involves several critical tests such as:

• Lumbar Puncture: A diagnostic procedure where cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is collected for analysis.

• Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis: This includes tests like layered Ziehl–Neelsen staining, CSF culture, GenoType MTBDRplus assay, Cepheid Xpert MTB/RIF, and more.

• Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) Activity: Elevated ADA levels in CSF often indicate tuberculous meningitis.

• Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH): High LDH levels in CSF help differentiate viral from other types of meningitis.

• Viral Serology: Testing for specific antibodies against viruses like herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), or enteroviruses.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Meningitis at Apollo Hospitals Bangalore

At Apollo Hospitals Bangalore, a host of treatment options is available for patients diagnosed with Meningitis:

• Antibiotics: Administered promptly for bacterial meningitis to prevent complications and reduce mortality.

• Antiviral Medications: Prescribed by doctors for meningeal infection in viral cases.

• Antifungal Medications: Used to treat fungal meningitis.

• Supportive Care: Patients often require supportive care including intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and pain management.

• Lumbar Puncture or Cerebrospinal Fluid Drainage: In severe cases, these surgical options are employed to alleviate symptoms by reducing intracranial pressure.