Keywords
Neurology
Lumbar Puncture
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Abstract
Objective: To describe the characteristics of viral meningitis in order to diagnose and treat patients with this disease. Literature review: Meningitis is defined as an inflammatory process of the membranes that cover the central nervous system (CNS). The symptomatology is quite variable, but clinically stands out for headache, neck stiffness, fever, photophobia and myalgia. Regarding etiology, enteroviruses are responsible for most cases, but it can also be caused by herpes simplex microorganisms (HSV-1 and HSV-2) and varicella zoster (VZV). Final considerations: Viral meningitis constitutes the majority of cases of CNS viral infection and represents a medical emergency. It is diagnosed through CSF puncture with PCR to search for viral DNA or RNA, although the classic clinical signs: neck stiffness, Kernig's sign and Brudzinski's sign can help in the diagnosis and increase the indication for performing the puncture. As it is a self-limiting disease, its treatment is aimed at patient support, although in some cases antivirals may be administered. Thus, care for patients with viral meningitis is essential in order to provide adequate diagnosis and treatment, thus avoiding unfavorable outcomes.
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