Which pair of signs are commonly associated with meningitis?

• A. Nuchal rigidity and Photophobia
• B. Productive cough and Bloody sputum
• C. Jaundice and Weight loss
• D. Nausea and Vomiting

Answer: (A)

Meningitis causes irritation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, leading to meningeal signs. Nuchal rigidity, or a stiff neck, happens because flexing the neck provokes pain from inflamed meninges. Photophobia, or sensitivity to light, also results from meningeal irritation. Together, these two signs are a classic pairing that strongly suggests meningitis in clinical questions. The other options describe symptoms more typical of other body systems—lung infection with a productive cough and bloody sputum, liver-related issues with jaundice and weight loss, or nonspecific nausea and vomiting not specific to meningitis. So the combination of neck stiffness and photophobia best indicates meningitis.