A neonate with gram-negative bacilli meningitis is started on appropriate antibiotics. According to standard recommendations, when should a repeat lumbar puncture be performed to document CSF sterilization?

• A 12-24 hours after starting therapy
• B Repeat LP is never required if the infant is clinically improving
• C 72-96 hours after starting therapy
• D 24-48 hours after starting therapy ✓

Explanation

Repeat lumbar puncture at 24-48 hours is recommended for gram-negative neonatal meningitis because these infections have a high rate of complications and slower sterilization compared to gram-positive meningitis. It guides therapy duration. For GBS or Listeria meningitis, repeat LP is only done if no clinical improvement is seen.

Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.