Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders — Topic Test

A 9-month-old infant is brought with irritability, refusal of feeds, and a bulging anterior fontanelle for 18 hours. CSF analysis shows: cells 1200 cells/mm³ (90% polymorphs), protein 180 mg/dL, glucose 18 mg/dL (blood glucose 90 mg/dL), Gram stain shows Gram-negative diplococci. After initiating appropriate antibiotics, dexamethasone is added. The primary rationale for adding dexamethasone in this age group is to reduce: