Clinical relevance of hydrocephalus in bacterial meningitis in adults

In this study, disturbed consciousness and a higher mean age at the time of admission are risk factors for developing hydrocephalus during the acute phase of bacterial meningitis. Poor outcomes are also found in this specific group of patients, and these may be attributed to the infection itself, hydrocephalus, or both. Because of fulminated clinical courses and high fatality rates, surgical intervention may be suitable only for those who have progressive hydrocephalus and are neurologically stable. In spite the high fatality rate, adequate treatment of neurologic complications and aggressive antimicrobial therapy are essential in improving therapeutic outcomes.