Cochlear implantation and meningitis.
OBJECTIVE
Study clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment of cochlear implant patients diagnosed with bacterial meningitis.


BACKGROUND
Cochlear implantation in children is necessary for the optimal development of speech in the developing child diagnosed with profound sensorineural hearing loss. Approximately 60,000 devices have been inserted in adults and children worldwide to date.


METHODS
The Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology of a tertiary care children's hospital.


METHODS
All patients undergoing cochlear implantation from April 1997 were identified. Patients diagnosed with bacterial meningitis after implantation were selected for study.


RESULTS
Of 30 children, two developed bacterial meningitis after cochlear implantation. One patient developed Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis. One patient developed nontypable Haemophilus influenzae bacterial meningitis. Both patients made a complete recovery.


CONCLUSIONS
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of meningitis is essential to optimize outcome.
Callanan
Vincent
V
Department of Otolaryngology, Children's Hospital of Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA. vcallanan@ent.temple.edu
Poje
Christopher
C
D002675:Child, Preschool; D019929:Cochlear Implantation; D003054:Cochlear Implants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006193:Haemophilus influenzae; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008583:Meningitis, Haemophilus / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D008586:Meningitis, Pneumococcal / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D011183:Postoperative Complications