Question

A 59-year-old with suspected bacterial meningitis receives dexamethasone and ceftriaxone/vancomycin after blood cultures. Why steroids?

Accepted Answer

Adjunctive dexamethasone reduces mortality and neurologic complications in suspected pneumococcal meningitis when given before/with first dose of antibiotics

Answer

Steroids treat viral meningitis

Answer

Steroids replace antibiotics

Answer

Steroids only after LP

Answer

Steroids required for all meningitis types

Practice question

A 59-year-old with suspected bacterial meningitis receives dexamethasone and ceftriaxone/vancomycin after blood cultures. Why steroids?