Diagnosis and Treatment Archive
Leukemic Meningitis
What is leukemic meningitis?

The meninges are a layer of protection for the brain which reduces the likelihood of damage to the brain during impact or injury. Meningitis is the infection and inflammation of the meninges, and also involving the cerebral cortex immediately adjacent to the meninges. The cortex is where all the functioning in the brain connects, so the inflammation can result in a reduction of all motor and sensory function throughout the body.

Leukemia is cancer of the blood cells. Bone marrow, where blood cells are produced, allows an uncontrolled increase of white blood cells (WBC).

Leukemic meningitis is a general term for meningitis caused by leukemia.


What clinical findings (signs, symptoms,and test results) indicate leukemia?

Click here for information on the general symptoms of leukemia. Meningeal leukemia is characterized by:


Treatment options:

Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of leukemia and the age of the patient. Click the following links for information about possible treatment options:


Acute Leukemia Treatment options


Science Links

What is blood?

Brain function

Understanding the brain

What is meningitis?