What is meningeal syndrome?
What is meningeal syndrome?
(meh-NIN-jee-ul SIN-drome) A condition marked by headache, fever, and a stiff neck, which is caused when the meninges (three thin layers of tissue that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord) become irritated.
What are the main symptoms of meningeal syndrome?
Symptoms
- Sudden high fever.
- Stiff neck.
- Severe headache that seems different from normal.
- Headache with nausea or vomiting.
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating.
- Seizures.
- Sleepiness or difficulty waking.
- Sensitivity to light.
What are signs of meningeal irritation?
| Signs of meningeal irritation | Maneuver |
|---|---|
| Kernig sign | Place patient supine with hip flexed at 90 degrees. Attempt to extend the leg at the knee. |
| Brudzinski sign | Place patient in the supine position and passively flex the head toward the chest. |
What causes meningeal irritation?
Causes: Infectious meningitis (bacterial or viral), subarachnoid hemorrhage, neoplasms of the brain and meninges, extensive stroke affecting an area adjacent to the spaces with cerebrospinal fluid.
What are some signs of meningeal irritation?
What is a meningeal headache?
Headache One of the most common symptoms of meningitis is a severe headache. This is due to inflammation in the meninges, which are the membranes surrounding the brain and the spinal cord. The inflammation can result in significant pain.
What are the 2 types of meningitis?
Meningitis is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis, followed by bacterial meningitis. Rarer types of meningitis include chemical and fungal meningitis.
What are positive meningeal signs?
The test is positive when there is resistance to extension at the knee to >135 degrees or pain in the lower back or posterior thigh. Place patient in the supine position and passively flex the head toward the chest.
