Subdural empyemas--a rare complication of meningococcal cerebrospinal meningitis in children.

Abstract

Subdural empyemas are a rare, life-threatening complication of cerebrospinal meningitis. Two cases of subdural empyemas which occurred as early complications after cerebrospinal meningitis in infants are presented. Utilization of modern diagnostic methods, such as US and CT allowed to establish an early diagnosis, which made it possible to institute appropriate treatment, involving evacuation of the purulent content with local application of antibiotics followed by intravenous antibiotics well penetrating the fluid-filled compartments of the CNS. Early institution of treatment gave a chance of complete recovery in both presented cases.