Recurrent meningitis in association with common variable immune deficiency.

Recurrent meningitis in children is unusual and usually associated with a predisposing factor like immune-deficiency disorder or cranio-spinal defect. We report a case of recurrent meningitis in association with Common Variable Immune deficiency. Recurrent meningitis in childhood should always prompt a search for an underlying cause. Meningitis is usually acquired by the spread of blood-borne bacteria into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). However if more than one episode has occurred other possible routes of entry should be considered. Bacteria can gain entrance to the subarachnoid space by migration along congenital tissue planes or acquired anatomical pathways. Alternatively the usual hematogenous spread may be facilitated by an immunological deficiency which makes the host defences inadequate barriers against potential bacterial pathogens. We describe a child with recurrent episodes of bacterial meningitis who was investigated for both immunodeficiency and an anatomical defect. (excerpt)