Dictionary of Biological Psychology
Inflammation of the membranes (MENINGES) that envelope the brain and spinal cord. The usual cause is infection by almost any of the common viruses or bacteria, the identity of which determines the course of the disease.
Viral infections are usually benign and self-limiting, though suspect as a possible cause of persisting debility (see MYALGIC ENCEPHALITIS). Bacterial infections generally respond well to prompt intervention with antibiotics, but chronic infections, by the organisms responsible for tuberculosis or syphilis, are relatively intractable. Characteristic symptoms of meningitis are due to raised intracranial pressure and include HEADACHE, neck stiffness and urinary retention.
L.JACOB HERBERG
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