Bacterial purulent meningitis in children: is there a light at the end of the tunnel?

Abstract

Bacterial purulent meningitis is a life-threatening disease characterized by high mortality and severe consequences in survivors. Despite the modern possibilities of medicine, the disease continues to be a heavy burden on health care, the economy and society everywhere.Aim. To draw the attention of doctors to the problems associated with modern features of epidemiology, the consequences and possibilities of preventing bacterial purulent meningitis, especially in children, who constitute the main risk group for the development of this pathology.Literature review of Russian and foreign publications on the problem under consideration presented.Vaccination is recognized as one of the main tools for reducing morbidity and mortality from meningitis. Prophylactic vaccinations against N. meningitidis, Str.pneumoniae, H. influenzae, along with strict adherence to anti-epidemic measures in hospitals providing care to newborns, can help reduce the incidence of purulent meningitis in children and improve outcomes if they develop.

Clinical features and outcomes of meningitis for children in the republic of North Ossetia–Alania

“…Adverse effects of bacterial purulent meningitis (PM) in recovery are caused by the development of infectious and cerebral complications (toxic shock syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation and respiratory distress syndrome, cerebral edema, ischemic stroke, and intracranial hypertension). Disability and mortality develop in 15-50 % of children, with more «mild» consequences -in 20-30 % of cases [2][3][4]. Expected outcomes include severe hearing loss, epileptic status, motor impairment, blindness, and mental retardation.…”

Clinical and laboratory characteristics of haemophilus influenza type b Infection with central nervous system Involvement in young children

“…Сформировалось мнение о том, что генерализованые формы гемофильной инфекции, включая гнойный менингит, преимущественно выявляют у детей с факторами риска, к которым относят фоновые состояния и сопутствующую патологию [1,6]. По нашим данным, лишь 40 % детей имели отягощенный преморбидный фон, что, бесспорно, следует учитывать в клинической практике.…”

“…До последнего времени в России вакцинация от гемофильной инфекции проводилась лишь когортам детей групп «риска» (с иммунодефицитными состояниям, сопутствующими заболеваниями центральной нервной системы и находящимся в закрытых коллективах) [6]. В связи с выборочной вакцинацией против Hib-инфекции снизилась заболеваемость Hib-менингитами у детей до 5 лет [7].…”