Download What is meningitis? - Kenston Local Schools

• http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/27/health/the
-children-of-zika/index.html
Definition of Meningitis
 A general name for inflammation of :
• sheaths that cover the brain
• CSF - the fluid that circulates in the
and spinal cord.
spaces in and around the brain and spinal
cord.
Meningitis can be caused bacteria, viruses, fungi,
and other organisms such as protozoa and
rickettsia.
What is meningitis?
• Meningitis is an infection of the fluid in the spinal cord and the
fluid that surrounds the brain. Meningitis is usually caused by
an infection with a virus, with a bacterium or even with fungi.
• Caused by virus
• Less severe
• Resolves without specific
treatment within a week or two
• Caused by bacteria
• Severe & may result in
a) brain damage
b) hearing loss
c) learning disability
• Limb amputation
• Death
Antibiotics can treat most types of
Bacterial Meningitis
Exotoxin Vs Endotoxin
• Exotoxin:
REMEMBER THIS? 
– Secreted by
living cells
– Even a very
small amount is
toxic.
– EX: Diptheria,
Tetanus,
Botulism
• Endotoxin:
– Toxin released
only after cell is
damaged or has
died
– Toxic in high
doses
• EX: Salmonella,
E. Coli,
Meningitis
By: Alyssa Riddle