Bacterial Meningitis Score (children)
Identifies children with CSF pleocytosis at very low risk of bacterial meningitis.
Inputs
Positive CSF Gram stain
CSF ANC 1,000 cells/µL or higher
CSF protein 80 mg/dL or higher
Peripheral ANC 10,000 cells/µL or higher
Seizure at or before presentation
Worked calculation
Your values are highlighted.
- Points
When to use
- Children over 2 months with CSF pleocytosis (WC ≥ 10/µL) and no pretreatment, shunt, or critical illness.
Pearls and pitfalls
- Score 0: very low risk (negative predictive value 99.9%).
Why use
Supports outpatient care for likely viral meningitis.
| Criterion | Points |
|---|---|
| Positive CSF Gram stain | +2 |
| CSF ANC 1,000 cells/µL or higher | +1 |
| CSF protein 80 mg/dL or higher | +1 |
| Peripheral ANC 10,000 cells/µL or higher | +1 |
| Seizure at or before presentation | +1 |