Evolutive features of viral and bacterial meningoencephalitis in children

Abstract

Background. This study investigates the differences between viral and bacterial meningoencephalitis in children through a detailed analysis of 10 pediatric cases by comparing clinical presentations, laboratory findings, treatment responses, and outcomes. Material and methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 10 pediatric patients diagnosed with meningoencephalitis over the past five years. Inclusion criteria are age (0-16 years) and confirmed diagnosis through cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis and complete medical records. Result: According to clinical presentation, fever: present in all cases. Seizures: more common in bacterial cases (60%) than viral cases (40%). altered mental status: more prevalent in bacterial cases (80%) compared to viral cases (60%). laboratory findings pleocytosis: higher in bacterial cases (average 1200 cells/µL) compared to viral cases (average 200 cells/µL). protein levels: elevated in 80% of bacterial cases and 60% of viral cases. glucose levels: reduced in all bacterial cases, normal in viral cases. MRI abnormalities: detected more frequently in bacterial cases (60%) compared to viral cases (40%). Complications: more common in bacterial cases (60% vs. 20% in viral cases). Recovery without sequelae: higher in viral cases (80%) compared to bacterial cases (40%). Conclusion. This study highlights significant differences in the clinical presentation, laboratory findings, and outcomes between viral and bacterial meningoencephalitis in pediatric patients. Bacterial cases exhibit more severe manifestations, greater CSF abnormalities, longer hospital stays, and higher complication rates. Early differentiation and appropriate treatment are crucial for improving outcomes. Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended to validate these findings and refine diagnostic and treatment protocols.