Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What is the recommended prophylaxis for meningitis in exposed patients?

1. Ciprofloxacin or Rifampicin

2. Azithromycin or Vancomycin

3. Cephalosporins or Penicillin

4. Amoxicillin or Tetracycline

The correct answer is: Ciprofloxacin or Rifampicin

The recommended prophylaxis for meningitis in exposed patients is primarily aimed at preventing the spread of bacterial strains that can cause meningitis, especially Neisseria meningitidis and Haemophilus influenzae type b. In this context, Ciprofloxacin and Rifampicin are effective choices. Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that is particularly effective against Neisseria species, and a single oral dose can provide adequate prophylaxis for individuals who have been in close contact with a patient diagnosed with meningococcal disease. On the other hand, Rifampicin is often used as a prophylactic treatment as it is effective in eradicating nasal carriage of the bacteria in individuals who have been exposed. The other options, while they are antibiotics, are not the standard recommendations for prophylaxis against meningitis after exposure to a patient with the disease. For example, Azithromycin has its uses in specific bacterial infections but is not recommended for meningitis prophylaxis. Similarly, Cephalosporins and Penicillin are typically used for treatment rather than prevention, and although they may be effective against some bacterial causes of meningitis, their role in prophylaxis is not established in the same manner as Ciprofloxacin or Rifampicin.