What will CSF show in viral meningitis?
The CSF profile is abnormal in viral meningitis. Characteristics include usually normal opening pressure, slightly increased protein and normal glucose (glucose is below normal for bacterial meningitis)….
| Table 1: Most Common Agents Associated With Meningitis | |
|---|---|
| Bacteria | |
| Coxsackievirus | Varicella-zoster |
Why is CSF protein increased in viral meningitis?
Infants have higher protein levels (0.6 – 1.5 g/L) due to increased blood brain barrier permeability. Cisternal and ventricular fluids have lower total protein concentration than fluid obtained by lumbar puncture. CSF protein may be normal or mildly increased in viral meningitis.
How is the CSF different in viral and bacterial meningitis?
The clues that the doctor uses are the levels of white cells, protein and glucose in the CSF. Typically in bacterial meningitis the white cell count is much higher than in viral meningitis (and is a different type of white cell), the protein is much higher and the glucose is much lower than in viral meningitis.
Why CSF is clear in viral meningitis?
The CSF findings are more suggestive of viral meningitis given the clear appearance of the CSF, the mildly raised WCC (consisting mainly of lymphocytes), raised protein level and normal glucose.
How long does viral meningitis last?
Most people who get mild viral meningitis usually recover completely in 7 to 10 days without treatment. Antiviral medicine may help people with meningitis caused by viruses such as herpesvirus and influenza.
What type of isolation is used for viral meningitis?
Meningococcal meningitis patients should be placed on droplet precautions (private room, mask for all entering the room) until they have completed 24 hours of appropriate antibiotic therapy. Negative pressure ventilation is not required. Patients with pneumococcal or viral meningitis do not require isolation.
Why is protein low in viral meningitis?
The spinal fluid normally contains very little protein since serum proteins are large molecules that do not cross the blood-brain barrier.
Is bacterial or viral meningitis worse?
Viral meningitis is the most common and least serious type. Bacterial meningitis is rare, but can be very serious if not treated.
What does protein in CSF indicate?
An abnormal protein level in the CSF suggests a problem in the central nervous system. Increased protein level may be a sign of a tumor, bleeding, nerve inflammation, or injury. A blockage in the flow of spinal fluid can cause the rapid buildup of protein in the lower spinal area.
Can viral meningitis damage brain?
Viral meningitis is more common, but bacterial meningitis is more serious. It can lead to brain damage, paralysis, or stroke. In some cases, it can be fatal.
How long are you contagious with viral meningitis?
Viral meningitis can be contagious from 3 days after infection starts to about 10 days after symptoms develop. Bacterial meningitis is usually less contagious than viral meningitis. It’s generally contagious during the incubation period and an additional 7 to 14 days.