In aseptic meningitis, which CSF pattern is true?

Prepare for the NBME Form 11 Test with targeted flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to aid learning. Boost your readiness for exam day!

Multiple Choice

In aseptic meningitis, which CSF pattern is true?

Explanation:
In aseptic (viral) meningitis, CSF glucose tends to be normal. CSF glucose reflects plasma glucose and is reduced when bacteria or highly active inflammatory cells consume glucose in the CSF or when transport is impaired. Viruses cause inflammation without the same level of glucose consumption, so the glucose level in CSF stays near normal (about 0.6 of the plasma glucose). Therefore, a normal CSF glucose pattern best fits aseptic meningitis, whereas low glucose would suggest bacterial involvement and elevated or unmeasured glucose would not fit the typical viral pattern.

In aseptic (viral) meningitis, CSF glucose tends to be normal. CSF glucose reflects plasma glucose and is reduced when bacteria or highly active inflammatory cells consume glucose in the CSF or when transport is impaired. Viruses cause inflammation without the same level of glucose consumption, so the glucose level in CSF stays near normal (about 0.6 of the plasma glucose). Therefore, a normal CSF glucose pattern best fits aseptic meningitis, whereas low glucose would suggest bacterial involvement and elevated or unmeasured glucose would not fit the typical viral pattern.

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