The Acute Aseptic Meningitis Syndrome

The aseptic meningitis syndrome (AMS) is as a diagnostic and management challenge. Since the initial description of AMS in 1925, the differential diagnosis of infectious and noninfectious agents associated with this syndrome has progressed. Although most cases of aseptic meningitis have a benign outcome, several etiologies require urgent therapy if the patient is to survive and be cured. This review will address the differential diagnosis of AMS and focus on recent empiric data that may aid the clinician treating these patients.