The glass test is a really useful way of spotting suspected meningitis. If your child has a cluster of red or purple spots, press the side of a clear drinking glass firmly against the rash. In this example the spots are still visible through the glass. This is called a non-blanching rash – it does not fade.
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Is the meningitis glass test accurate?
The glass test is a really useful way of spotting suspected meningitis. If your child has a cluster of red or purple spots, press the side of a clear drinking glass firmly against the rash. In this example the spots are still visible through the glass. This is called a non-blanching rash – it does not fade.
How is infant meningitis diagnosed?
Definitive diagnosis of neonatal bacterial meningitis is made by CSF examination via lumbar puncture (LP), which should be done in any neonate suspected of having sepsis or meningitis. However, LP can be difficult to do in a neonate, and there is some risk of hypoxia.
What does it mean if a rash doesn’t disappear under a glass?
If a rash does not fade under a glass, it can be a sign of sepsis (sometimes called septicaemia or blood poisoning) caused by meningitis and you should call 999 straight away.
Does the glass test always work?
The glass test If you can still see the spots clearly through the glass, it may be a sign of septicemia, especially if you also have a fever. The glass test is a good tool, but it’s not always accurate. This is a life-threatening illness so it’s important to get medical attention if you have any symptoms.
How does a glass test for meningitis?
The meningitis glass test
- Press the side of a clear glass firmly against the skin.
- Spots/rash may fade at first.
- Keep checking.
- Fever with spots/rash that do not fade under pressure is a medical emergency.
- Do not wait for a rash. If someone is ill and getting worse, get medical help immediately.
Do all rashes fade under glass?
Unlike other rashes, they do not fade under pressure. A person can determine whether a rash is non-blanching by holding a glass against the skin and pressing down. A number of factors can cause a non-blanching rash. While many are not serious, some require urgent medical care.
How would a baby get bacterial meningitis?
Your baby can get meningitis when bacteria, viruses, or a fungus infecting another part of their body travels in the bloodstream to their brain and spinal cord. Out of 1,000 live births, about 0.1 to 0.4 neonates (a baby less than 28 days old) get meningitis, estimates a 2017 review.
How do you test for meningitis with a glass?
What do you do in a glass test?
How do you do the glass test on a baby?
Press a clear glass tumbler firmly against the rash. If you can see the marks clearly through the glass seek urgent medical help immediately. Check the entire body. Look out for tiny red or brown pin-prick marks which can change into larger red or purple blotches and blood blisters.