Abstract
Neuroimaging plays a key role in the diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) infections,
as well as common infectious mimics. Standard imaging techniques such as computed
tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as advanced techniques
such as vessel wall imaging and MR spectroscopy, are becoming widely used in many
areas of the world and are valuable tools to aid neurologists in clinical practice.
This review seeks to elucidate patterns of infectious pathogen tropism in the brain
and spine, detail key imaging features of specific neuroinfectious pathogens such
as patterns of enhancement and formation of mass lesions, and improve understanding
of the sequential development of CNS infections and their complications including
stroke and hydrocephalus. Here, we focus on a clinically relevant approach, categorizing
pathogens in detail based on clinical syndrome and neuroanatomical imaging findings.
Keywords
magnetic resonance imaging - computed tomography - neuroimaging - neuroinfectious
diseases
