A patient with weakened immunity presents with chronic meningitis. Which type of meningitis is more likely in this case?
Viral meningitis.
Bacterial meningitis.
Fungal meningitis.
Parasitic meningitis.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Viral meningitis is less likely in this case because the patient has weakened immunity, suggesting a chronic and severe condition. Viral meningitis is often self-limiting and less severe in immunocompetent individuals.
Choice B rationale:
Bacterial meningitis is less likely in this case as well, as chronic meningitis usually has a slower onset, and bacterial meningitis tends to have a more acute and rapidly progressive course.
Choice C rationale:
Fungal meningitis is more likely in a patient with weakened immunity, as certain fungal pathogens, such as Cryptococcus and Histoplasma, can cause chronic and persistent meningitis in immunocompromised individuals.
Choice D rationale:
Parasitic meningitis is not a common form of meningitis and is usually associated with specific parasitic infections, which are less likely to occur in immunocompromised patients.
Choice E rationale:
Tuberculous meningitis is a type of bacterial meningitis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While it can occur in immunocompromised individuals, fungal meningitis is more prevalent in this population.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A cloudy appearance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can indicate the presence of white blood cells and bacteria, suggesting an infection. However, it is not specific to bacterial or fungal infection and can also be seen in viral meningitis or non-infectious conditions like multiple sclerosis.
Choice B rationale:
Increased pressure in the CSF may occur in meningitis due to the inflammation and accumulation of fluid. While it can raise suspicion for meningitis, it is not specific to bacterial or fungal infection and can also be observed in other intracranial conditions.
Choice C rationale:
Decreased glucose levels in the CSF are a characteristic finding in bacterial or fungal meningitis. The invading bacteria or fungi consume glucose, leading to lower levels in the CSF compared to normal blood glucose levels. This finding helps differentiate bacterial or fungal meningitis from viral meningitis, where glucose levels are usually normal.
Choice D rationale:
Elevated protein levels in the CSF can be seen in various conditions, including meningitis. While it indicates increased inflammation and breakdown of cells, it is not specific to bacterial or fungal infection and can be present in viral or other forms of meningitis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Antibiotic therapy for the family members is not the most appropriate preventive measure for Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. While antibiotics are used to treat the infection, providing antibiotic therapy to family members does not prevent the spread of the bacteria to others.
Choice B rationale:
Prophylaxis for the patient's close contacts is the recommended preventive measure for Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. Close contacts of a patient with this type of meningitis, such as household members and daycare contacts, are at an increased risk of contracting the disease. Administering prophylactic antibiotics to these individuals can help prevent the transmission of the bacteria and reduce the likelihood of developing the infection.
Choice C rationale:
Hygiene education for school staff and students is not directly related to preventing the spread of Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. While hygiene education is essential for preventing the spread of infections in general, it is not specific to this particular type of meningitis.
Choice D rationale:
Outbreak management protocols for the community may be necessary if there is an outbreak of Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. However, this choice does not address the immediate preventive measure needed for the diagnosed pediatric patient and their close contacts.
Choice E rationale:
Vaccination against Neisseria meningitidis is not directly relevant to preventing Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis. These are two different types of bacteria that cause different forms of meningitis, and vaccination against Neisseria meningitidis would not protect against Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis.
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