Meningitis refers to an inflammation of the meninges, the membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord. Numerous infectious pathogens may cause meningitis, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

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[BACTERIAL MENINGITIS]

A number of bacterial agents can cause a severe and often fatal form of meningitis. The most common etiologies present today are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitides, and Haemophilus influenzae. College-aged individuals are at increased risk for bacterial meningitis due to living conditions and social practices that facilitate pathogen transmission.

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[ASEPTIC MENINGITIS]

Aseptic meningitis refers to a form of the disease characterized by a nonpyrogenic cellular response. Most often aseptic meningitis has a viral etiology.

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[VIRAL MENINGITIS]

Viral meningitis is more common but less serious than bacterial meningitis. It often presents with flu-like symptoms and remains undiagnosed. The most common etiology is the enterovirus, a group of viruses that infect the gastrointestinal tract of humans.

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[FUNGAL MENINGITIS]

Certain types of fungus, particularly Cryptococcus neoformans, can cause meningitis in immunocompromised persons. This form of meningitis is often associated with AIDS.

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[AMOEBIC MENINGITIS]

This very serious and rare form of meningitis almost always results in death. The Acanthamoeba, Balamuthia, and Naeleria species can cause disease.

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