The image shows a basal view of the brain of a 76-year-old man who died of acute pneumococcal meningitis, which is caused by bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae.
The basal view of the brain of the patient who died of acute bacterial meningitis shows a thick and purulent exudate. The exudate is seen encasing the cranial nerves and basal artery, obscuring the ventral aspect of the brain stem. The exudate fills the basal cisterns including the cisterna magna while tracking over the ventral cerebral hemisphere. On the left, in the right frontal and temporal lobes, a large pigmented and depressed scar is visible. The pigmented scar is presumably the result of loss of focal tissue and old contusion.
Pneumoccocal meningitis is a rare yet serious illness that can turn into a life threatening medical emergency. The infection has long-term effects, for this reason, prompt treatment is necessary to minimize adverse events.
S. Pneumonia is the leading cause of bacterial meningitis in adults. It is associated with substantial mortality and morbidity. However, since the introduction of pneumococcal vaccine, severe pneumococcal infection, including meningitis, has decreased significantly.
Pneumococcal meningitis occurs when the bacteria enters the bloodstream and infects the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal. However, it is not always necessary to contract meningitis. The bacteria can cause several other illnesses, including, ear infections, blood infections, sinus infections and pneumonia.
According to the Meningitis Research Foundation of Canada, nearly 40 percent of people carry S. Pneumonia in their system.
Although, in majority of these people the bacteria is not active and growing. Therefore, will not cause any illness. However, anyone carrying this bacteria can transmit it to others via aerosol droplets or by sharing food, silverware or someone else’s lipstick. Potentially causing pneumococcal meningitis or any of the illnesses mentioned above.
References
Golden, J. A., & Louis, D. N. (1994). Acute Bacterial Meningitis. New England Journal of Medicine, 331(6), 364-364.
