Neurological Complications and Clinical Outcomes of Bacterial Meningitis: A Cross-SectionalStudy from Dhi-Qar, Iraq

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and the type of neurological complications in patients who had bacterial meningitis.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Al-Turky hospital in Dhi-Qar, Iraq from 15th March 2025 31st August 2025.

Methods: Fifty three patients who diagnosed with bacterial meningitis were enrolled. The demographic characteristics, clinical presentation and neurological complications were gathered and analyzed.

Results: The males (54.7%) were more numerous than females (45.3%). The largest age group was 10–20 years (41.5%). Forty-two (79.3%) patients had neurological sequel; while 11 (20.7%) patients were neurologically normal. Seizures, altered mental status, hearing impairment, focal neurological deficits, and cerebrovascular complications were the most common complications observed. The elderly age was the least represented and neurological complications occurred in all age groups.

Conclusion: Neurological complications are very common in patients with bacterial meningitis and play an important role in the poor outcome. Rapid diagnosis and early initiation of antimicrobial treatment and close neurological monitoring is crucial to limit morbidity and optimize prognosis.