Quiz Investigation 006

Scenario

A 27 year old previously well woman presents with a 24 hour history of fever and headache. A lumbar puncture is performed.

Cerebrospinal fluid biochemical and microbiological results

Question

a.Describe and interpret her CSF results.(30%)
b.Outline your management.(70%)

Answer

FACEM VAQ Exam 2007.2 – Question 8

  • Overall pass rate for this question was 42/77 (54.5%).
  • The examiners felt that this was a good set of data which would have benefited from a more focused clinical scenario to narrow the management options proposed.
  • Good answers identified viral meningitis as the most likely diagnosis with partially treated or early bacterial meningitis being other possibilities.
  • Good management answers addressed supportive measures, and discussed the pros and cons of treating with antibiotics depending on clinical factors.

ACEM Fellowship Visual Aid Questions

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About Mike Cadogan

Emergency physician with a passion for medical informatics and medical education. Co-founder of HealthEngine, iMeducate, and the GMEP. He writes more eclectically on the web as @sandnsurf | + Mike Cadogan | Contact