2. Academic Validation
  3. Viral (aseptic) meningitis: A review

Viral (aseptic) meningitis: A review

  • J Neurol Sci. 2019 Mar 15;398:176-183. doi: 10.1016/j.jns.2019.01.050.
William F Wright 1,  Casey N Pinto 2,  Kathryn Palisoc 3,  Salim Baghli 3
Affiliations

Affiliations

  • 1 Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pinnacle, United States. Electronic address: [email protected].
  • 2 Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pinnacle, United States; Department of Public Health Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, United States. Electronic address: [email protected].
  • 3 Division of Hospital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pinnacle, United States.
PMID: 30731305 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2019.01.050
Abstract

Viral meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges associated with acute onset of meningeal symptoms and fever, pleocytosis of the cerebrospinal fluid, and no growth on routine Bacterial culture. It is sometimes associated with viral encephalitis and meningoencephalitis. Viruses reach the central nervous system (CNS) hematogenously or in a retrograde manner from nerve endings. The viral etiology varies according to age and country. Molecular diagnostics technology has helped improve the rate of pathogen detection reducing unnecessary Antibiotic use and length of hospitalization. Most of the viral infections detailed in this article have no specific treatment other than supportive care. Many of the viruses discussed are preventable by vaccination and proper skin protection against transmitting vectors.

Keywords

Aseptic; Meningitis; Viral.

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