Acute neutrophilic meningitis treated successfully with corticosteroids

South Med J. 2003 Sep;96(9):912-3. doi: 10.1097/01.SMJ.0000082002.66513.EA.

Abstract

This report describes a cocaine user who presented with polymorphonuclear pleocytosis in cerebrospinal fluid mimicking bacterial meningitis. Thorough investigation of the cerebrospinal fluid did not reveal evidence of bacteria or fungi. Clinical deterioration was observed in spite of empiric treatment with antibiotics. The patient had a favorable outcome after corticosteroid treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Adult
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Cocaine / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Meningitis / drug therapy*
  • Meningitis / etiology*
  • Neutrophils / drug effects*
  • Prednisolone / therapeutic use*
  • Vasculitis, Central Nervous System / chemically induced*
  • Vasculitis, Central Nervous System / complications*
  • Vasoconstrictor Agents / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Vasoconstrictor Agents
  • Prednisolone
  • Cocaine