Meningitis: Burden, Causes, Screening and Prevention in Rural Northern Uganda

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · Aug 9, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on understanding meningitis, a serious infection that affects the brain and spinal cord, in rural northern Uganda. Researchers aim to learn more about how many people are affected, what causes the disease, and how it can be diagnosed and treated better. They believe that by gathering this information, they can help improve care for patients and advocate for important preventive measures, such as routine vaccinations and better screening for a specific type of meningitis related to HIV.

To participate in the trial, individuals must meet certain criteria. They are looking for 1,100 patients showing symptoms of meningitis, regardless of age, and 10,000 HIV-positive patients to help with a screening test for a specific infection called cryptococcal antigen (CrAg). Participants can expect to be admitted to Lira Regional Referral Hospital, where they will undergo various tests and evaluations. The goal is to enhance understanding and treatment of meningitis, ultimately saving lives in the community.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1100 patients who present with meningitis or meningitis symptoms, regardless of age or vulnerably status are eligible for meningitis testing.
• • 10,000 HIV-infected patients presenting to LRRH, LRRH HIV Clinic (LIDC) or nearby outpatient clinics, regardless of age or vulnerability status, are eligible for CrAg screening.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients who are found not to have meningitis after initial evaluation, or are found to have other alternative diagnoses that explain their symptoms, will be excluded.
• • HIV-negative patients without signs or symptoms of meningitis.