What happens to glucose levels in the presence of bacterial meningitis?

In cases of bacterial meningitis, glucose levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) typically decrease. This happens because bacteria consume glucose for their metabolism, leading to lower levels available in the CSF. In addition, the inflammatory response associated with meningitis can impair the ability of glucose to be transported into the CSF from the blood, further contributing to reduced glucose levels.

In bacterial infections, the body's response includes a significant increase in white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, which can also deplete glucose as they mount an immune response. Therefore, observing decreased glucose levels in the CSF analysis is a common diagnostic finding in bacterial meningitis, distinguishing it from viral meningitis where glucose levels are usually normal.

Understanding this relationship between bacterial infection and glucose metabolism can aid healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing patients with suspected meningitis.