A 2-year-old is listed for cochlear implantation. As part of preoperative preparation, immunization is specifically updated because implantation carries a recognized increase in the risk of which infection?
- A Haemophilus influenzae type B meningitis
- B Neisseria meningitidis septicemia
- C Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis ✓
- D Herpes simplex encephalitis
Correct answer: C. Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis
Explanation
Children with cochlear implants have a higher incidence of bacterial meningitis than the general population, chiefly pneumococcal. Cases were linked to electrode design factors and to middle ear infection spreading along the electrode tract, so complete pneumococcal vaccination is advised before surgery. Haemophilus influenzae type C vaccine is part of routine schedules but is not the organism specifically associated with implant related meningitis, and viral encephalitis has no connection to the implant.
Reference: Cummings Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.