Abstract

Background:
Meningitis is the inflammation of the meninges associated with an abnormal cell count in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Aseptic meningitis is the most common form, with viruses being a frequent cause. This study aimed to evaluate the etiology and frequency of viral meningitis cases in Muğla, focusing on the most common pathogens in pediatric and adult patients.
Methods:
The study included 867 individuals whose CSF samples were tested by PCR between August 2019 and September 2024. Viral meningitis pathogens, including Enterovirus, Parechovirus, HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV, and Mumps, were assessed using the Fast Track DIAGNOSTIC multiplex real-time PCR kit for a viral panel.
Results:
The mean age of the 867 participants was 46.96 ± 24.93 years, with 45.8% being female, 14.6% pediatric cases, and 1.0% of foreign nationality. Viral pathogens were detected in 35 cases (4.0%). Among these, 5.5% were male, which was statistically higher than females (p=0.015). Additionally, 6.3% were children, and 11.1% were foreign nationals. The most frequently identified pathogens were HSV-1 (2.1%) and VZV (1.0%). The least detected pathogens were Mumps and Parechovirus, with one case each. In pediatric cases, the most common pathogen was VZV (2.4%), whereas in adults, it was HSV-1 (2.2%). Among foreign nationals, only HSV-1 was identified (1 case). Viral pathogens were detected at the highest rate in 2023 (5.2%). The highest prevalence across age groups was observed in individuals aged 35–64 years (37.1%).
Conclusion:
This study represents the first report on the molecular diagnosis of viral meningitis in Muğla. Our findings reflect the incidence of viral meningitis infections in the region. The use of molecular methods to identify viral pathogens plays a critical role in patient management. Detecting the causative agent of viral meningitis reduces inappropriate antibiotic use, hospital stay durations, and associated costs.

Key words: Viral meningitis, HSV-1/2, VZV, Mumps, Enterovirus, Parechovirus.