The clinical signs, etiological agents, diagnosis and the management protocols of neonatal meningitis vary markedly from meningitis in adults and older children. Even with development of newer antimicrobials and advanced critical care, neonatal meningitis continues to be a significant concern. In India, the incidence of neonatal bacterial meningitis has been variable among studies and over periods of time. Studies have reported between 0.3 to 2.8 cases per 1000 live births.
The bacterial spectrum of neonatal meningitis in India also differs markedly from western countries. The continued prevalence of neonatal meningitis in few studies has been attributed to the increased survival of preterm infants. But paradoxically, limited access to neonatal care and practice of unsafe deliveries continue in our country. Pathophysiology Neonatal bacterial meningitis is almost invariably associated…
