Introduction

Meningitis is an acute infection of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Though relatively uncommon, with an incidence of approximately 1-2 cases per 100,000 persons, it remains an important disease for pharmacists and clinicians to promptly recognize and treat due to its potential for significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated or treated late. Meningitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other organisms, but bacterial meningitis is the most serious form and requires urgent therapy with antibiotics and adjunctive steroids.

Pharmacists play a critical role in managing meningitis through ensuring appropriate antibiotic selection and dosing, particularly in pediatric patients. Key aspects of this disease state include its variable clinical presentation, the rapid progression if caused by aggressive bacteria, the pivotal role of lumbar puncture and CSF analysis in diagnosis, and the need for empiric antibiotic therapy to be initiated immediately upon clinical suspicion. Recent advances include pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccinations that have reduced disease burden. However, antibiotic resistance among common bacterial pathogens remains an ongoing concern. This section will cover the clinical features of meningitis, diagnostic approach, management strategies including antibiotic and adjunctive therapy, and prevention through vaccination.