What condition is characterized by inflammation of the meninges?

The condition characterized by inflammation of the meninges is meningitis. The meninges are the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, and their inflammation can lead to significant neurological complications. Meningitis can be caused by various infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses, or fungi, and it typically presents with symptoms such as fever, headache, neck stiffness, and altered mental status.

Understanding the implications of meningitis is critical for nursing practice, as swift recognition and intervention can be life-saving. The inflammation can interfere with brain function and increase intracranial pressure, making prompt diagnosis and treatment essential. This condition is distinct from other options, as bronchitis affects the bronchial tubes in the lungs, pneumonia refers to infection and inflammation of the lungs, and encephalitis involves inflammation of the brain itself rather than the protective membranes surrounding it.