Bacterial meningitis alters intracranial physiology, causing:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Bacterial meningitis can lead to cerebral edema by causing an inflammatory response within the brain tissue. This inflammation can result in the buildup of fluid, leading to edema. Additionally, the inflammatory response can cause an increase in permeability of the blood-brain barrier, allowing substances that are not normally able to cross the barrier to do so. This can lead to further disruption in the balance of fluid within the brain. Finally, the inflammatory response and the buildup of fluid can also result in raised intracranial pressure, which can further exacerbate the physiological changes occurring in the brain. Therefore, all of the above changes - cerebral edema, increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier, and raised intracranial pressure - can be seen in cases of bacterial meningitis.