Cognitive and Physical Effects of Bacterial Meningitis
Introduction
By Alyssa Gest
Meningitis, characterized by the inflammation of the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord, poses a significant threat to human health, especially acute bacterial meningitis [1]. Understanding the etiology and virulence factors of bacterial meningitis is crucial for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Such pathogens include Streptococcus pneumonia, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenza.They demonstrate various mechanisms to break through the blood-brain barrier and invade the central nervous system. These lead to altercations in the brain and spinal cord and later the infected person can develop cognitive impairment and physical consequences. These mechanisms enable bacterial colonization inside the hose cell and promote their survival. They also involve complex interactions with the virulence factors of the pathogenesis bacteria and the host cell immune mechanisms. These processes help scientists and doctors develop targeted therapies and vaccines for bacterial meningitis.
Overview of Meningitis
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Brain Structure and Bacterial Invasion
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Pathogentic Strains
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Cognitive and Physical Conseqences
Conclusion
References
- ↑ Zainel, Abdulwahed, Hana Mitchell, and Manish Sadarangani. 2021. "Bacterial Meningitis in Children: Neurological Complications, Associated Risk Factors, and Prevention" Microorganisms 9, no. 3: 535. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms9030535
Authored for BIOL 238 Microbiology, taught by Joan Slonczewski,at Kenyon College,2024
