What causes meningitis in HIV patients?

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People living with HIV are at increased risk for getting meningococcal disease, a rare, but very serious illness. It is caused by a type of bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. Even if treated quickly, meningococcal disease can cause long-term problems or be deadly.

How do you treat cryptococcal meningitis?

Cryptococcal meningitis is treated with antifungal drugs such as amphotericin, fluconazole, and flucytosine (induction therapy); recurrence of the infection is prevented by taking fluconazole daily for life or until the immune system recovers.

What are the signs and symptoms of cryptococcal meningitis?

The symptoms of cryptococcal meningitis include:

Headache.
Fever.
Neck pain.
Nausea and vomiting.
Sensitivity to light.
Confusion or changes in behavior.

Is meningitis a symptom of HIV?

Meningitis, inflammation of the membranes covering the spinal cord or brain, is common in people with HIV — but may be caused by a variety of things.

Can you recover from cryptococcal meningitis?

So, if the disease is left untreated for a long time, it can cause some serious damage to your nervous system — some of which can’t be reversed. This damage can include seizures, reduced consciousness, coma, and even death. Even with the best available treatment, mortality rates are 15% to 30%.

How serious is cryptococcal meningitis?

Cryptococcal meningitis is a type of meningitis caused by a fungus called Cryptococcus. This type of meningitis mainly affects people with weakened immune systems due to another illness. If not treated, cryptococcal meningitis can have lasting consequences and can even be fatal.

Can you get meningitis from kissing?

Bacteria that can be transmitted by kissing Examples of bacteria that can be transmitted during kissing include: Meningococcal disease – this is a potentially life-threatening condition which includes meningitis, inflammation of the membranes (meninges) that surround the brain and spinal cord, and septicaemia.