Asceptic meningitis & IVIG

    
      Re: Asceptic meningitis & IVIG
    


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Posted by ccf neuro M.D.* on August 19, 1997 at 12:51:59:

In Reply to: Asceptic meningitis & IVIG posted by Debra on August 18, 1997 at 22:47:05:
  I am looking for information concerning asceptic meningitis as an adverse reaction to IVIG.  How do you tell the difference between it and a severe migraine?  Is there any way to avoid it?
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Aseptic meningitis is a nonspecific term used to indicate any inflammation or irritation of the linings around the brain that is not secondary to an identifiable bacterial or fungal organism. Usually it is viral in origin, but many different medications can trigger it as a rare side effect. It differs from migraine insofar as migraine is a problem caused by an abnormal spasm and then expansion of a blood vessel in the brain, which then releases chemicals that produce the symptoms of headache, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, and motion. Also, people with aseptic meningitis often have a stiff neck whereas this is unusual for migraines. Migraine is usually a diagnosis made by history alone, whereas the diagnosis of aseptic meningitis requires a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) that demonstrates inflammation in the spinal fluid, and cultures of the same fluid that are negative for bacteria or fungi. IVIG is a rare cause of aseptic meningitis and more commonly causes flu-like symptoms as a side effect. If you are in need of prolonged treatment with IVIg and the aseptic meningitis reoccurs, you may wish to discuss treatment alternatives with your physician(s).
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