title: Bacterial meningitis in infants and children: a review.
abstract: Emergency physicians are often required to evaluate febrile infants and children with no obvious source of infection. Most have uncomplicated viral illnesses. It is imperative, however, to identify the child with potentially life-threatening bacterial meningitis. The clinical presentation of meningitis is variable and depends on many factors. These variables are discussed as well as the indications for lumbar puncture and guidelines for laboratory evaluation. Recommendations for antibiotic selection and dosages are provided. The clinical trials regarding the use of dexamethasone are also reviewed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Jacksonville 32209.
authors.forename: L G
authors.initials: LG
authors.lastname: Oliver
authors.forename: A L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Harwood-Nuss
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004630:Emergencies; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D016920:Meningitis, Bacterial / Q000134:cerebrospinal fluid / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy; D013129:Spinal Puncture
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D003907:Dexamethasone