DIAGNOSIS
Your doctor or pediatrician can diagnose you with meningitis based
on your family history, a physical exam and certain diagnostic tests. During
the examination, your doctor will check for any noticeable signs of
infection around the ears, head, throat, and the skin along the spine.
Your doctor or pediatrician can diagnose you with meningitis based
on your family history, a physical exam and certain diagnostic tests. During
the examination, your doctor will check for any noticeable signs of
infection around the ears, head, throat, and the skin along the spine.
Lumber Puncture A sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CFS), the watery fluid that protects the brain and spinal cord, is removed from around the spinal cord. In cases with people infected with meningitis, the CSF normally shows low sugar levels as well as an increase in white blood cell count and increased protein. CFS can also tell the doctor the exact bacteria affecting the patient. If your doctor suspects viral meningitis, then he or she will conduct a test called polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a DNA-based test. This test shows the exact virus causing meningitis, which helps determine the proper prognosis and treatment. Imaging X-rays can be taken of the head, chest, or sinuses that could revel swelling or inflammation. These tests can also help find infection in other areas of the body that may be associated with meningitis. Blood cultures Blood drawn from a vein is sent to a laboratory and placed in a special dish to see if it grows microorganisms (bacteria), particularly bacteria. In most tests, a slide which contains stains, called the Gram's Stain, is examined under a microscope for bacteria. Glass Check This is a quick self-diagnoses if you are suspecting that you have meningitis. Get a clear glass tube, or a glass cup and push the glass against any rashes on your skin. If the rashes change color or disappear, then you do not have meningitis. If the rash does not change color and stays the same, you are likely to have meningitis and need to immediately contact your doctor. |