Central Nervous System Infections

Viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, helminths and various agents may infect the central nervous system. Also intracranial tumors, collagen vascular disorders, medications, and intracranial cysts may account for syndromes that mimic Central Nervous System (CNS) Infections. CNS infections can occur clinically in three forms. They can be acute, subacute or chronic, depending on the type of infectious agent and the site where the infection occurs. Central nervous system infections are major causes of morbidity and death. They can occur in the cranium and spinal column and they are life-threatening infections that require immediate treatment. The most common clinical findings in patients with CNS infections are headaches, fevers, mental status disorders, or neurological deficits. Symptoms may vary depending on the virulence of the etiologic agent and the site of involvement of the CNS infection. These findings are nonspecific and not all findings may be seen in all patients. This is a well-written book prepared with the contribution of eighteen specialist physicians on the diagnosis, treatment, management and prevention of infectious diseases.