Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

meningitis, Mollaret
A rare form of aseptic
meningitis characterized by a recurrent pattern with
symptom-free intervals between episodes.
Symptoms of Mollaret meningitis, which last from 1
to 7 days, include headache, neck ache, fever, and
neck stiffness. With this type of meningitis, there is
usually rapid onset of symptoms and resolution
without residual damage to the nervous system.
Symptom-free periods may last from weeks to years.
The herpes simplex virus is now believed to play a
role in the causation of Mollaret meningitis. The
long-term outcome for a patient with Mollaret
meningitis is excellent. Also known as benign recur-
rent aseptic meningitis.
meningitis, neoplastic
Inflammation of the
meninges due to cancer that has spread from
the original (primary) tumor to the meninges. The
name neoplastic meningitis is a misnomer because
the condition is not inflammatory. It is more prop-
erly called meningeal carcinomatosis or meningeal
metastases.
meningitis, viral
Inflammation of the meninges
that is due to a virus, such as mumps virus or cox-
sackievirus, that is shed in the feces, sputum (spit),
and nasal discharges. Viral meningitis is contagious,
and it occurs most frequently in children. It can be
a complication of common childhood diseases,
including chickenpox. Symptoms include fever,
headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness,
and confusion. Babies with viral meningitis may be
irritable and difficult to awaken, and they may feed
poorly. Most patients with viral meningitis recover
completely. Treatment, if warranted, involves use of
antiviral drugs. Viral meningitis can often be pre-
vented by improved hygiene. Also known as aseptic
meningitis.
meningocele
Protrusion of the membranes of
the spinal cord or brain through a defect in the ver-
tebral column or skull.