Meningitis is an uncommon but serious illness at any age, and during the first few weeks of life it poses a particular hazard with high mortality and a considerable risk to survivors of permanent damage to the developing brain. This book comprehensively reviews bacterial, fungal and viral forms of the illness. Epidemiology and comparisons of maternally and environmentally derived infections are included, along with a view of the developing brain and host defence mechanisms. A review of experimental bacterial meningitis is provided, together with a discussion of its relevance for clinical and laboratory diagnosis, and for antimicrobial and supportive management. Prospects for the future in terms of early diagnosis, management and prevention are also addressed. In its collation of material from such a wide range of literature sources, this is a vital reference for all clinicians with an interest in the problems of meningitis in early life.