BMJ 2008;336:36-40 (5 January). Clinical review
by: Sarah A E Logan, specialist registrar, Eithne MacMahon, consultant Infection and Immunology:
- Bacterial and viral meningitis cannot reliably be differentiated clinically, and all suspected cases should be referred to hospital
- Viral meningitis is most common in young children; the incidence decreases with age
- Enteroviruses are the most common cause at all ages
- Although most cases are self limiting, morbidity may be considerable
- Herpes simplex virus causes viral meningitis, which may recur
- Genital herpes infection may be acquired from a partner after many years within a monogamous relationship
- Meningitis is a feature of HIV seroconversion
- In the absence of associated encephalitis, the prognosis is usually good
