HAEMOPHILUS MENINGITIS Meaning and
Definition
-
Haemophilus Meningitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the meninges, which are the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, caused by the bacterium Haemophilus influenzae. This bacterial infection typically affects infants and young children, but can also occur in adults, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
The bacterium Haemophilus influenzae is a gram-negative coccobacillus that can be found in the upper respiratory tract of humans. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets from infected individuals during close contact. The bacteria can invade the bloodstream and travel to the meninges, causing the onset of meningitis.
Symptoms of Haemophilus Meningitis include fever, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, nausea, vomiting, and altered mental status. In infants, irritability, poor feeding, and a bulging fontanelle (soft spot on the head) may also be present. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms are observed, as delay in treatment can lead to serious complications, including brain damage, hearing loss, or even death.
The introduction of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine in the childhood immunization schedule has significantly reduced the incidence of Haemophilus Meningitis. Antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone or cefotaxime, are typically prescribed to treat the infection. Prompt treatment with antibiotics can help prevent complications and improve outcomes.
In summary, Haemophilus Meningitis is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the meninges. It primarily affects children but can also occur in adults. Early recognition and prompt treatment are crucial in preventing severe complications associated with this condition.
Common Misspellings for HAEMOPHILUS MENINGITIS
- gaemophilus meningitis
- baemophilus meningitis
- naemophilus meningitis
- jaemophilus meningitis
- uaemophilus meningitis
- yaemophilus meningitis
- hzemophilus meningitis
- hsemophilus meningitis
- hwemophilus meningitis
- hqemophilus meningitis
- hawmophilus meningitis
- hasmophilus meningitis
- hadmophilus meningitis
- harmophilus meningitis
- ha4mophilus meningitis
- ha3mophilus meningitis
- haenophilus meningitis
- haekophilus meningitis
- haejophilus meningitis
- haemiphilus meningitis
Etymology of HAEMOPHILUS MENINGITIS
The word "Haemophilus" in Haemophilus meningitis is derived from the Greek words "haemo-" meaning "blood" and "-philus" meaning "loving". It refers to the bacterium's requirement for blood factors (specifically, factor X) to grow.
The term "meningitis" originates from the Greek word "méninx", which means "meninx" or "membrane", and the suffix "-itis", which denotes inflammation. In this context, Haemophilus meningitis refers to the inflammation of the meninges (the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord), caused by the Haemophilus influenzae bacterium.
