Bacterial Meningitis Score for Children

Check each criterion present (each counts +1). Score 0 → bacterial meningitis unlikely in teaching cohorts.

Check each criterion that is present:

Petechial or purpuric rash Ill / toxic appearance Altered mental status or concern for meningismus Focal neurologic deficit Seizure (before or at presentation) Suspicion of elevated intracranial pressure (e.g., bulging fontanelle in infant) CSF absolute neutrophil count ≥1000 cells/µL (if known)