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'''CSF analysis''' is the preferred method of diagnosis, usually revealing a '''raised total protein and a sometimes positive culture result'''. The latter is definitive although sometimes difficult to obtain. In farm species however, '''clinical signs''' are often used for a presumptive diagnosis and treatment instigated appropriately.  
 
'''CSF analysis''' is the preferred method of diagnosis, usually revealing a '''raised total protein and a sometimes positive culture result'''. The latter is definitive although sometimes difficult to obtain. In farm species however, '''clinical signs''' are often used for a presumptive diagnosis and treatment instigated appropriately.  
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A '''blood culture will confirm bacteraemia''' which in the presence of neurological signs can confirm a suspicion of bacterial meningitis. This will also allow the causative agent and its sensitivity profile to be identified.  
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A '''blood culture will confirm bacteraemia''' which in the presence of neurological signs can confirm a suspicion of bacterial meningitis. This will also allow the causative agent and its sensitivity profile to be identified.
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On necropsy, the '''meninges and parenchyma are infiltrated by leucocytes and the subarachnoid space is inflamed''', often along its entire length. '''Perivascular cuffing''' often features extensively. Blood vessels within and associated with the CNS may show evidence of '''vasculitis'''. End-stage disease features areas of '''necrosis and malacia''' with a mixed inflammatory infiltrate.
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[[Listeriosis]]also causes its own pathognomic pathology, which is discussed further [[Listeriosis|here]].
    
==Treatment==
 
==Treatment==
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