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.

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

• Confusion
• Lethargy
• Headache
• A careful examination of the blood cells will show them to be leukemic. In some cases these cells manage to get into the spinal fluid and meninges, so you get the leukemic cells lining the meninges and the cortex. Click here for more information.

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:

Chemotherapy

Acute Leukemia Treatment options

What is blood?

Brain function

Understanding the brain

What is meningitis?