A 35-year-old woman presents with severe headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, and fever. She has had a cold for the past week. What are the potential causes and next steps?
These symptoms are concerning for bacterial meningitis. Immediate steps include obtaining blood cultures, starting broad-spectrum antibiotics, and performing a lumbar puncture if there are no contraindications. Supportive care such as fluids, fever control, and potentially corticosteroids should also be given.