Type 3: Fungal Meningitis – The Unusual Suspect
Next, we move onto fungal meningitis, a much less common variant of the disease. It’s caused by a fungus spreading through blood to the spinal cord. Certain types of fungi found in soil and bird droppings can lead to fungal meningitis in people with weakened immune systems. The most common causes include Cryptococcus neoformans, Histoplasma capsulatum, and Candida species.
Unlike bacterial and viral meningitis, fungal meningitis often presents with a slow onset of symptoms. Patients may experience fever, headache, stiff neck, and fatigue. Additionally, more specific symptoms such as weight loss, night sweats, and rash might also be present. Given the slower progression, fungal meningitis can often go unnoticed or misdiagnosed in its early stages.
The course of fungal meningitis can be severe and prolonged, often requiring long-term antifungal treatment. Antifungal medications are typically given intravenously, and depending on the severity and the type of fungus, treatment can extend for several weeks or even months.(3)
