Re: Recurring Meningitis

Posted By CCF MD GS on March 31, 1999 at 10:54:15:

In Reply to: Recurring Meningitis posted by Marsha on March 31, 1999 at 09:10:56:






I have had recurring meningitis since I was a child.  All the viral panels have
come back negative, including varicella, herpes simplex 2, etc.  I am 41 years old
and it's getting a lot harder to rebound back.  Any ideas on where to go from
here?  I've had 6 or 7 hospitalizations, numerous spinal taps, and I really
am at a loss.  There have been other times where the doctor has said "yes you have
it, stay home and in bed."  According to family and what I can count up, the total
times I have had it now is 10 known cases.  I would really appreciate any help
you could give me.  Or any ideas on where to go from here.  Thanks.







   =


Thanks for the question. These are very difficult cases to manage as you know all too well. There is a condition that you are probably aware of called Mollaret's meningitis that is related to HSV II infection. These cases can cause recurrent meningitis. PCR is the best best to detect the virus. The cultures are often negative. You should have a MRI scan if ine has never been done but I'm sure it has. Some infectious disease doctors will recommend prophylactic treatment with acyclovir. This is a tough choice since nothing has ever shown up but you may want to consider going in this direction. Good luck
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your doctor regarding diagnostic and treatment options.