Frequency of Clinical Presentation and Outcome in Patients with Pyogenic Meningitis at Pediatric Unit of Bacha Khan Medical College Swabi

Background: Pyogenic meningitis remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality among children in developing countries despite advances in antimicrobial therapy. Early diagnosis and prompt management are critical for improving outcomes. This study aimed to determine the frequency of clinical presentations and outcomes in pediatric patients with pyogenic meningitis admitted to Bacha Khan Medical College, Swabi. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Bacha Khan Medical Complex, Swabi, from August 2024 to February 2025. A total of 109 children aged 1–6 years, diagnosed with pyogenic meningitis based on cerebrospinal fluid findings, were included through consecutive non-probability sampling. Data regarding demographic variables, clinical presentation, and in-hospital outcome were recorded and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: The mean age of the participants was 3.42 ± 1.25 years, with a male predominance (56.9%). Fever (92.7%) was the most common presenting symptom, followed by vomiting (73.4%) and seizures (64.2%). Mortality was observed in 8.3% of patients. A significant association was found between seizure presentation and mortality (p = 0.03). Conclusion: Pyogenic meningitis continues to be a significant pediatric health burden in Pakistan. Fever, vomiting, and seizures remain the hallmark features of presentation, while seizure at onset is a strong predictor of mortality. Early recognition, timely initiation of empirical antibiotic therapy, and improved healthcare accessibility are essential to reducing fatal outcomes and long-term complications.