OVERVIEW OF MENINGITIS IN WESTERN PARANÁ: AN ANALYSIS IN THE PERIOD 2016-2023

Abstract

Introduction: Meningitis is an inflammatory process of the leptomeninges, the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and is characterized by an abnormal number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in most patients. The inflammatory process of meningitis can be triggered by both infectious and non-infectious factors. The infectious causes primarily bacterial and viral are the most significant in terms of public health due to their high prevalence in the country. Objectives:to present the epidemiological profile of meningitis in the western macro-region of Paraná over the period from 2016 to 2023. Methodology:a descriptive, retrospective study with a quantitative approach, using data from the DATASUS platform to analyze the epidemiological profile of meningitis in western Paraná between 2016 and 2023. Results: out of 2,088 patients, the majority were male, with viral meningitis being the most prevalent type, followed by bacterial meningitis. The disease was more common among individuals with low educational levels, young children, and middle-aged adults. Although most patients recovered, comorbidities and extreme ages increased morbidity and mortality rates.  Conclusion: the high prevalence of the disease and its morbidity and mortality highlight the need for strengthened control strategies and increased epidemiological surveillance, not only in the studied region but throughout the country.