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Does A CT Scan Without Contrast Detect Viral Or Bacterial Meningitis?
Question: Would viral or bacterial meningitis show up in a CT scan without contrast? What is the likelihood of suffering meningitis without fever and why don't doctors consider it a possibility? I had viral meningitis last year (never ran a fever) but have been totally debilitated by daily headaches and at least 2 or more migraines per week for several months. Please, how do I ask doctors to recheck my meningitis?
Brief Answer:
Please request for detailed clinical evaluation
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing in to us.
Meningitis is a condition where the covering of brain and spinal cord gets infected. This infection might be from a bacteria, virus and in those with decreased immunity it is caused by tuberculosis or fungal infection.
Since you had viral meningitis last year therefore the headaches are likely due to certain changes that occurred during that time. Many patients experience headache for months or years after viral meningitis and you might be having similar problems.
A CT scan without contrast will not show meningitis in every patient. CT scan with contrast or MRI scan is a better investigation.
It is true that viral meningitis might present without high fever in early stages and meningitis is suspected from other symptoms involving brain.
I suggest you discuss your headache symptoms with your doctor and request for a detailed investigation if required after clinical evaluation.
Hope your query is answered.
Please write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek
Please request for detailed clinical evaluation
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for writing in to us.
Meningitis is a condition where the covering of brain and spinal cord gets infected. This infection might be from a bacteria, virus and in those with decreased immunity it is caused by tuberculosis or fungal infection.
Since you had viral meningitis last year therefore the headaches are likely due to certain changes that occurred during that time. Many patients experience headache for months or years after viral meningitis and you might be having similar problems.
A CT scan without contrast will not show meningitis in every patient. CT scan with contrast or MRI scan is a better investigation.
It is true that viral meningitis might present without high fever in early stages and meningitis is suspected from other symptoms involving brain.
I suggest you discuss your headache symptoms with your doctor and request for a detailed investigation if required after clinical evaluation.
Hope your query is answered.
Please write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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