Computed tomography in purulent meningitis
J. Bodino, P. Lylyk, M. Del Valle, J. P. Wasserman, R. Leiguarda, J. Monges and E. L. Lopez
Of 102 patients with bacterial meningitis admitted to the Children's
Hospital of Buenos Aires, 25 were selected for computed tomographic (CT)
scans on the basis of altered consciousness for more than 96 hours after
admission, persistent or recurrent seizures after 72 hours of antibiotic
therapy, development of focal neurologic signs, increased intracranial
pressure or prolonged fever. Scan findings included hydrocephalus,
cerebritis, vasculitis, subdural effusion, cerebral atrophy, abscess, and
ependymitis. Serial CT scans demonstrated the progression or regression of
some complications. The CT scan was very useful in indicating the need for
neurosurgical procedures.
