Wikipedia:Today's featured article/April 2, 2009



Meningitis is a medical condition caused by inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known collectively as the meninges. The inflammation is caused by infection with viruses, bacteria, or other microorganisms, and less commonly by certain drugs or diseases. Meningitis is potentially life-threatening due to the inflammation's proximity to the brain and spinal cord; therefore it is a medical emergency. The most common symptoms of meningitis are headache and neck stiffness associated with fever, confusion or altered consciousness, and an inability to tolerate light (photophobia) or loud noises (phonophobia). If a rash is present, it may indicate a particular cause of meningitis; for instance, meningitis caused by meningococcal bacteria may be accompanied by a characteristic rash. Meningitis is diagnosed by a lumbar puncture, which involves inserting a needle into the spinal canal to extract a sample of cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid that envelops the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis must be treated promptly with antibiotics and sometimes antiviral drugs. Meningitis can lead to serious long-term consequences such as deafness, epilepsy, hydrocephalus and cognitive deficits. Some forms of meningitis may be prevented by immunization. (more...)

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