Meningitis in A college Student

What is the most common bacterial cause of meningitis in college-aged patients who live in dormitories?
A) N. meningitidis.
B) S. pneumococcus.
C) L. monocytogenes.
D) Haemophilus influenzae.
E) Escherichia coli.

Answer:


The correct answer is “A.” N. meningitidis

Discussion:  Although S. pneumococcus is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in the adult population in the United States, N. meningitidis remains the leading cause in adolescents despite vaccination and is particularly prevalent in the setting of dormitory living (e.g., college or military). In addition, the presence of petechial (or purpuric) rash in the lower extremities and pressure points is typical of N. meningitidis. The advent of vaccination has made H. influenzae a less common cause.
L. monocytogenes is more prevalent in those over age 50, infants, and immunocompromised.
E. coli is a common cause for meningitis in neonates and infants but is very uncommon in adolescents and adults.