An 11-month-old male with a two-day history of irritability and lethargy is brought to the emergency department by his mother. She reports that he has vomited four times today and has had fewer wet diapers than usual. He is up to date with his vaccinations. On examination, he is febrile, and a slight bulging of his anterior fontanel and neck stiffness are noted. Laboratory tests demonstrate a serum glucose of 75 mg/dL, and blood cultures and a lumbar puncture are performed. Analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) reveals a predominance of neutrophils. Which additional CSF finding is most likely?
A. Glucose of 50 mg/dL
B. Glucose of 18 mg/dL
C. Protein of 98 mg/dL
D. White blood cell count of 90/microL
Find the answer, discuss this case, and more on Figure 1.
Explore cases, quiz yourself, and solve medical mysteries along with thousands of other medical professionals around the world on Figure 1, the free app where doctors expand their clinical knowledge.
Continue Your Research
Next Step for Applicants
Use this article as a handoff into structured school research, forum insight, and the next stage-specific resource.
Research Schools
Move from broad interest to structured program research for Medicine.
ValidateExplore the SDN Forums
Learn from premeds, medical students, and physicians sharing real experience in the SDN Forums.
AdvanceApplication Guide
Stay on track with SDN guidance for deadlines, secondaries, interviews, and decisions.
Need advice?
Use SDN expert support when you want confidential answers now or more longitudinal pre-health advising focused on acceptance.
Ask an Advisor
Ask a quick confidential question in an anonymous setting and hear from SDN verified expert advisors. Always human, always free.
Acceptance StrategyWork with a Pre-Health Coach
Work longitudinally with SDN's pre-health coach on application strategy, planning, and decisions that can strengthen your application.
