Functional and behavioral outcome of bacterial meningitis in school-aged survivors

Pediatr Int. 2011 Jun;53(3):300-2. doi: 10.1111/j.1442-200X.2011.03387.x.

Abstract

Background: Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection with high morbidity and a significant risk for neurological and functional sequelae. The purpose of this study was to assess children and teenagers with a history of bacterial meningitis for functional and behavioral problems.

Methods: Thirty children and teenagers who suffered bacterial meningitis beyond the age of 6 months were compared against 30 healthy controls for functional and behavioral problems. Both groups were assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist by Achenbach for abilities and behavioral problems.

Results: No significant difference was found between the two groups.

Conclusion: School-aged survivors of bacterial meningitis beyond the first 6 months of life have a very good prognosis with regards to competence and behavior.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior*
  • Central Nervous System / physiology*
  • Child
  • Child Behavior Disorders / etiology
  • Child Behavior Disorders / physiopathology
  • Child Behavior Disorders / psychology*
  • Child Behavior*
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Meningitis, Bacterial / complications
  • Meningitis, Bacterial / physiopathology*
  • Meningitis, Bacterial / psychology
  • Prognosis
  • Recovery of Function / physiology*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Factors
  • Survivors / psychology*