Background: Infective meningitis is a neurological emergency with significant variability in clinical presentation and outcome. Timely recognition and management can substantially influence patient prognosis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over one year (January–December 2024) in two tertiary care hospitals in Chigateri General Hospital and Bapuji Hospital Davangere Karnataka. 94 adult patients (aged ≥18 years) with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-confirmed meningitis were included. Patients with partially treated meningitis or with only radiological diagnosis were excluded. Clinical presentation, laboratory findings, treatment timing, and outcomes were documented. Results: Viral meningitis (36.2%) was the most common type, followed by Pyogenic (29.8%), Tubercular (18.1%), and Cryptococcal meningitis (16.0%). Neurological deficits were present in 27.7% of cases. Seizures occurred in 31.9% of patients, with lateonset seizures associated with increased mortality. Overall mortality was 24.5%. Hyponatremia (serum sodium <130 mEq/L) was detected in 55.3% of patients and significantly correlated with poor outcomes. Patients who received early empirical treatment with Antimicrobials and Corticosteroids had improved recovery compared to those whose treatment was delayed. Viral meningit Conclusion: is was the most prevalent with relatively good outcomes, whereas Pyogenic meningitis had the highest mortality. Hyponatremia, delayed seizures, and the presence of neurological deficits were associated with poorer prognosis. Prompt empirical treatment and supportive care remain crucial.
Rohith et al. (Fri,) studied this question.