FREQUENCY OF HYPONATREMIA IN PATIENTS WITH ACUTE BACTERIAL MENINGITIS

Abstract

Background: Acute bacterial meningitis (ABM) is a life-threatening condition characterized by inflammation of the meninges, often resulting in significant complications. Objective: This study aimed to determine the frequency of hyponatremia in patients with ABM and assess its impact on clinical outcomes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Medicine, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar from October 2024 to March 2025. A total of 135 patients diagnosed with ABM were enrolled using consecutive sampling. Demographic information, clinical symptoms, comorbidities, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters were recorded. Hyponatremia was assessed by measuring serum sodium levels, and its severity was categorized as mild, moderate, or severe. Results: The study found that 56.3% of patients had hyponatremia. Of these, 30.4% had mild, 17.0% had moderate, and 8.9% had severe hyponatremia. Hyponatremia was significantly associated with altered mental status (p = 0.02) and fever (p = 0.04). Hyponatremic patients had a higher rate of ICU admission (27.6% vs. 6.8%) and increased mortality (11.8% vs. 5.1%) compared to those without hyponatremia (p = 0.02 and p = 0.05, respectively). Conclusion: Hyponatremia is a common and significant complication in patients with ABM, with a prevalence of 56.3%. The severity of hyponatremia correlates with poor clinical outcomes, including increased ICU admissions and mortality. Monitoring and managing hyponatremia in ABM patients may improve clinical outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.