Inflammatory meningitis

Definition

A general term to describe a group of disorders in which there is Inflammation of the meninges due to an underlying inflammatory disorder. The syndrome is clinically characterised by headache, neck stiffness, fever and photophobia. Other central and peripheral nervous system manifestations may be present. Non-neurological features, including skin, eye and organ involvement may also be present. Diagnosis may be aided by serological testing, neuroimaging and if appropriate a tissue biopsy. Spinal fluid analysis may reveal a lymphocytic pleocytosis, a raised protein and the presence of oligoclonal bands.

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