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Neurocritical Care
Published in: Neurocritical Care 1/2017

01-09-2017

Emergency Neurologic Life Support: Meningitis and Encephalitis

Authors: David F. Gaieski, Nicole F. O’Brien, Ricardo Hernandez

Published in: Neurocritical Care | Special Issue 1/2017

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Abstract

Bacterial meningitis and viral encephalitis, particularly herpes simplex encephalitis, are severe neurological infections that, if not treated promptly and effectively, lead to poor neurological outcome or death. Because of the value of early recognition and treatment, meningitis and encephalitis was chosen as an Emergency Neurological Life Support protocol. This protocol provides a practical approach to recognition and urgent treatment of bacterial meningitis and encephalitis. Appropriate imaging, spinal fluid analysis, and early empiric treatment are discussed. Though uncommon in its full form, the typical clinical triad of headache, fever, and neck stiffness should alert the clinical practitioner to the possibility of a central nervous system infection. Early attention to the airway and maintaining normotension are crucial steps in the treatment of these patients, as is rapid treatment with anti-infectives and, in some cases, corticosteroids.
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Metadata
Title
Emergency Neurologic Life Support: Meningitis and Encephalitis
Authors
David F. Gaieski
Nicole F. O’Brien
Ricardo Hernandez
Publication date
01-09-2017
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Neurocritical Care / Issue Special Issue 1/2017
Print ISSN: 1541-6933
Electronic ISSN: 1556-0961
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12028-017-0455-y

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