Long-term sequelae of Hemophilus influenzae meningitis

The long-term effects of H. influenzae meningitis were studied in 86 patients who were treated with acceptable antibiotic therapy during acute episode in 1950 to 1964 in Nashville, Tennessee. Follow-up revealed that 11 were dead (eight died within first 24 hours of hospitalization). Fifty-six of them returned to Vanderbilt Medical Center for the following appraisals: history, general physical and neurological examinations; pure tone audiometry evaluation; and psychological testing by Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. Nineteen others sent information by questionnaire. Results indicated that 26 (29%) survivors had severe or significant handicaps; 12 (14%) had possible residuals; and 37 (43%) were free of detectable deficits. It was concluded that prevention of this disease should now be a prime goal.