Clinical and Epidemiological Profile of Meningitis Cases in Maranhão - Brasil

2012 to 2022

Abstract

Introduction: Meningitis, inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, is a serious disease with the potential to cause outbreaks and high mortality. Causes include viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Objectives: To analyze the clinical-epidemiological profile of meningitis in Maranhão between 2012 and 2022. Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive-analytical epidemiological study using data from the National Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). Results and Discussion: 1,582 cases of meningitis were analyzed, with a 56.8% decrease in the trend of cases over the period. The incidence decreased from 3.7 cases/100,000 inhabitants in 2012 to 1.5 cases/100,000 inhabitants in 2022. Males accounted for 59.3% of cases, higher than females (40.7%). The disease profile included men, brown-skinned individuals, between 20 and 39 years old, with incomplete elementary education, residing in urban areas, with a prevalence of viral infection. The chemocytological examination was the main diagnostic tool, and over 65% of cases resulted in hospital discharge. Conclusion: Meningitis in Maranhão behaves similarly to other studies in Brazil, being a serious disease that affects people of all ages and races. The study highlights the importance of monitoring the disease and developing strategies to reduce its incidence and mortality.