Definition of meningitis - NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms

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meningitis (meh-nin-JY-tis)

Inflammation of the meninges (three thin layers of tissue that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord). Meningitis is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection, but sometimes is caused by cancer, drug allergies, or inflammatory diseases.

Previous Definitions:	MEN1 syndrome, meningeal, meningeal metastasis, meninges, meningioma
Next Definitions:	menopausal hormone therapy, menopause, menorrhagia, menstrual cycle, menstrual period