№ 11Infectious Diseases17 min read
Meningitis, encephalitis
1. Big picture
Meningitis and encephalitis are medical emergencies. The key exam skill is to recognize the syndrome quickly, take cultures and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) safely, and start empirical treatment without dangerous delay.
Core distinction:
| Syndrome | Main site of inflammation | Dominant clinical clue |
|---|---|---|
| Meningitis | Meninges and subarachnoid space | Fever + headache + neck stiffness ± altered mental status |
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