Meningitis, Mollaret

Benign recurrent aseptic meningitis. The cause of Mollaret meningitis is not known. Mollaret meningitis is distinguished from viral meningitis by its recurrent character with symptom-free intervals between episodes. Symptoms include headache, neckache, fever, and neck stiffness and last from 1 to 7 days. There is usually rapid onset of symptoms of meningitis and resolution without residual damage to the nervous system. Symptom-free periods may last from weeks to years. A distinctive feature of Mollaret meningitis are peculiar cells in the spinal fluid, called Mollaret cells, which are most often visible in the first day of the attack. Other causes of meningitis are typically excluded by testing, including tests of the brain, blood, and spinal fluid. There is no specific treatment for Mollaret meningitis. Treatments that are used include medications for pain, colchicine, and acyclovir. The long-term outcome is excellent.