A 30-year-old woman was hospitalized after she experienced convulsions.On examination,she was alert and oriented and complained of a fever,headache,and stiff neck.Which of the following is most likely to provide rapid identification of the cause of her symptoms?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of fever, headache, and stiff neck are consistent with meningitis, and a gram stain of cerebrospinal fluid taken via lumbar puncture would allow for rapid identification of the causative agent (bacterial or fungal). Throat culture and serum antibodies may not provide as quick or accurate identification, while a brain tissue biopsy would be invasive and not typically the first course of action.

A 30-Year-Old Woman Was Hospitalized After She Experienced Convulsions