Alcoholic meningitis is a medical condition that is characterized by inflammation of the meninges, which are the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The word "alcoholic" is pronounced /æl.kəˈhɒ.lɪk/ and refers to a person who has a dependency on alcohol. The word "meningitis" is pronounced /mɪˈnɪn.dʒaɪ.tɪs/ and relates to the inflammation of the meninges. Together, "alcoholic meningitis" is pronounced /æl.kəˈhɒ.lɪk mɪˈnɪn.dʒaɪ.tɪs/ and signifies inflammation of the protective membranes caused by alcohol dependency.
Alcoholic meningitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the meninges, which are the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This condition specifically occurs in individuals who engage in chronic and excessive alcohol consumption.
The excessive alcohol intake weakens the immune system, making the individual more susceptible to infections, including meningitis. Alcoholic meningitis can be caused by different types of bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Neisseria meningitidis, which enter the bloodstream and propagate to the meninges, triggering an immune response and resulting in inflammation.
The symptoms of alcoholic meningitis may include severe headaches, fever, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, nausea, vomiting, cognitive impairment, confusion, and in some cases, convulsions or seizures. These symptoms can progress rapidly and warrant immediate medical attention, as alcoholic meningitis can pose serious health risks if left untreated.
Diagnosis of alcoholic meningitis usually involves a physical examination, analysis of cerebrospinal fluid collected through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap), and possibly blood tests. Treatment typically involves administration of intravenous antibiotics to fight off the bacterial infection, along with supportive care to manage symptoms and reduce complications. Intravenous fluids may be provided to prevent dehydration, and pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed.
In summary, alcoholic meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges caused by bacterial infection in individuals who excessively consume alcohol. It necessitates prompt medical intervention to prevent complications and promote recovery.
Serous m. (2) due to chronic alcoholism.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "alcoholic meningitis" combines two different words: "alcoholic" and "meningitis".
1. Alcoholic: The word "alcoholic" is derived from the Latin word "alcoholicus", which is derived from the Arabic word "al-kuḥl". The Arabic word was originally used to refer to a fine powder produced by distillation and later came to describe the distillation process itself. Over time, it evolved to specifically refer to the distilled spirit of wine. The term "alcoholic" describes something related to or characteristic of alcohol or the excessive consumption of alcohol.
2. Meningitis: The word "meningitis" is derived from the Greek word "meninx", meaning "membrane", and the suffix "-itis", which indicates inflammation. The meninges are the three membranes that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord.