CSF in meningococcal meningitis shows –
**Core Concept**
Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial infection of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is crucial in diagnosing this condition. The CSF examination typically reveals an increase in white blood cells, primarily neutrophils, indicating an acute bacterial infection.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In meningococcal meningitis, the CSF analysis typically shows a marked increase in neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell that responds to bacterial infections. This is due to the activation of the immune system, which leads to an influx of neutrophils into the CSF to combat the bacterial infection. The presence of neutrophils in the CSF is a key diagnostic feature of bacterial meningitis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the typical CSF findings in meningococcal meningitis. While there may be some increase in lymphocytes, neutrophils are the predominant type of white blood cell in this condition.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is not a characteristic finding in meningococcal meningitis. The CSF protein level may be elevated, but this is not a specific or sensitive indicator of this condition.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is not a typical finding in meningococcal meningitis. The CSF glucose level may be decreased, but this is more commonly associated with tuberculous meningitis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In bacterial meningitis, the CSF analysis typically shows an increase in neutrophils, which is a key diagnostic feature. This is in contrast to viral meningitis, which typically shows an increase in lymphocytes.
**Correct Answer:** A. Elevated neutrophils.