Aseptic Meningitis in Children: Analysis of 506 Cases
Author Information
Author(s): Michos Athanasios G., Syriopoulou Vassiliki P., Hadjichristodoulou Christos, Daikos George L., Lagona Evagelia, Douridas Panagiotis, Mostrou Glykeria, Theodoridou Maria
Primary Institution: Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, Athens University, Athens, Greece
Hypothesis
The role of enterovirus PCR for diagnosis and management of aseptic meningitis has not been fully explored.
Conclusion
Enteroviruses accounted for approximately one half of cases of aseptic meningitis, and PCR may reduce the length of hospitalization.
Supporting Evidence
- The annual incidence rate was estimated to be 17/100,000 children less than 14 years of age.
- Most cases occurred during summer (38%) and autumn (24%).
- The dominant clinical symptoms were fever (98%), headache (94%), and vomiting (67%).
- Enterovirus RNA was detected in CSF in 47 of 96 (48.9%) children tested.
- Children with positive enterovirus PCR had shorter hospitalization stays.
Takeaway
This study looked at kids with a type of meningitis and found that a special test can help doctors figure out what's wrong faster and help kids go home sooner.
Methodology
A retrospective study reviewing medical records of children diagnosed with aseptic or viral meningitis.
Potential Biases
Selection of patients for PCR testing was based on physician judgment, which may introduce bias.
Limitations
The study is retrospective, and the incidence may be underestimated as it only includes patients from one hospital.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 5 years, with a male to female ratio of 1.8 to 1.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.01
Statistical Significance
p=0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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