[Bacterial meningitis].

Recent developments in the pathogenesis, epidemiology and therapy of bacterial meningitis are presented. The importance of interleukin-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and prostaglandins as generators of inflammation within the central nervous system in animals and children is described. The role of mediators of inflammation such as dexamethasone in the experimental meningitis model and in clinical studies is reviewed. The optimal duration of therapy and the role of cephalosporins in bacterial meningitis are discussed.