Neonatal meningitis. The ventricle as a bacterial reservoir

Abstract

We reviewed autopsies of neonates who had died of meningitis. Plexitis and ventricular exudate were usually present. While the pathogenetic relationship between these two phenomena is uncertain, it is possible that the glycogen-rich choroid plexus of the lateral ventricles not only facilitates local bacterial growth but also acts as a bacterial reservoir relatively resistant to antimicrobial agents. We suggest that more drastic approaches than parenteral antimicrobial therapy may be indicated to reduce further the morbidity and mortality of neonatal meningitis.