CRANIAL SURGERY

INFECTIONS OF THE BRAIN

Infections of the brain can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and even parasites or protozoa. There are also non-infectious causes such as autoimmune/rheumatological diseases and certain medications. Depending on the infecting germ and the location of the inflammation caused, brain infections may include a range of symptoms including fever, headache, seizures, and changes in behaviour or confusion and may lead to brain damage, strokes and may even be fatal.

TYPES OF BRAIN INFECTIONS

Meningitis – This is an infection which leads to inflammation of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord, the meninges, and the cerebrospinal fluid.

Meningitis is most commonly caused by viral infections, but may also be caused by bacteria or fungi.

Viral meningitis is usually caused by herpes simplex virus, HIV or mumps, but is usually mild.
Bacterial meningitis can occur when bacteria such as pneumococcus, meningococcus, Haemophilus, listeria or tuberculosis enter the bloodstream or directly invade the meninges.
Cryptococcal meningitis is a common fungal form of the disease but is the more rare type of meningitis. It usually affects those with immune deficiencies such as AIDS.

Encephalitis - this is an infection of the brain tissue itself. Encephalitis is commonly caused by viruses such as the herpes simplex or Epstein-Barr virus, mosquito-borne or tick-borne viruses, the rabies virus and common childhood infections such as measles, German measles and mumps.

Meningitis and encephalitis often occur together. This is then known as meningoencephalitis. Infections of the brain often also involve other parts of the central nervous system, including the spinal cord. Acquired hydrocephalus, abscesses and inflammation of the spinal cord (known as Myelitis) are often complications of these brain infections.

TYPES OF BRAIN INFECTIONS

Depending on the type of brain infection, treatment may vary. While most viral infections go away on their own (with the exception of brain infections caused by herpes), infections caused by bacteria will require more complex treatment. In severe cases, a lumbar puncture may be necessary to identify the type of germ so that treatment can be better planned. Thereafter pain medications, sedatives and anticonvulsant medications may be prescribed to manage the symptoms while antibiotics will be required to treat the infection and prevent brain swelling, hearing loss and other possible complications.