In a child with CSF pleocytosis, identifies very low risk of BACTERIAL (as opposed to aseptic) meningitis.
The Bacterial Meningitis Score is a Neurology & trauma scoring tool used in paediatric practice. In a child with CSF pleocytosis, identifies very low risk of BACTERIAL (as opposed to aseptic) meningitis. It scores 5 criteria and interprets the total across 2 bands, so the number always arrives with the severity it implies rather than on its own. In PediAid each criterion is shown as a labelled option with the weight it carries, so the total can be checked rather than taken on trust.
5. They are Positive CSF Gram stain; CSF absolute neutrophil count ≥ 1 000 cells/µL; CSF protein ≥ 80 mg/dL; Peripheral blood absolute neutrophil count ≥ 10 000 cells/µL; Seizure at or before presentation.
The total is interpreted as: any score - Very low risk: no predictors - very low risk of bacterial meningitis (sensitivity ~99-100%, NPV ~99.9%). Many protocols allow observation off antibiotics with close follow-up; 1 predictor or more - Not low risk: one or more predictors - NOT low risk. Treat as bacterial meningitis: empirical antibiotics and admission pending cultures.
No. It is a structured way to record and communicate severity. A clinician concerned about a child should act on that concern regardless of the total.
Applies to children aged 29 days-19 years with CSF pleocytosis who are not critically ill, not pre-treated with antibiotics, without purpura, immunosuppression, VP shunt or recent neurosurgery.
Yes. Score definitions are bundled with the PediAid app, so the score computes without a connection.