Final answer:
Diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis involves various tests, such as culture, antigen detection, serotyping, and PCR. Lumbar puncture is commonly used to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for analysis. Treatment includes the use of ß-lactam antibiotics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis can be done through various tests, including:
- Culture of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or blood samples.
- Antigen detection by enzyme immunoassay.
- Serotyping of different capsule types.
- PCR and RT-PCR to detect the presence of the bacteria.
Additional clinical specimens may be required for timely detection, such as naso- and oropharyngeal swabs, petechial aspirates, and biopsies. Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is commonly used to collect CSF for analysis. Treatment involves the use of ß-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillin or ampicillin plus gentamicin.