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Neurologic presentations of fungal infections

Amy C Rauchway1, Sameea Husain, John B Selhorst

  • 1Department of Neurology & Psychiatry, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1438 South Grand Boulevard, St Louis, MO 63104, USA. rauchway@slu.edu

Neurologic Clinics
|November 26, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Fungal infections of the central nervous system (CNS) are increasingly common in immunocompromised patients. Understanding their clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial for neurologists.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Mycology

Background:

  • Fungal infections of the central nervous system (CNS) present significant morbidity and mortality.
  • A rise in susceptible hosts due to organ transplants, chemotherapy, and ICU stays has increased prevalence.
  • Neurologists require comprehensive knowledge of these infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of major fungal infections affecting the CNS.
  • To detail clinical features and laboratory findings of CNS mycoses.
  • To focus on the neurologic presentations of these infections.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical features.
  • Analysis of laboratory findings.
  • Focus on neurologic manifestations.

Main Results:

  • Overview of major CNS fungal infections.
  • Detailed clinical and laboratory findings.
  • Emphasis on neurologic presentations.

Conclusions:

  • Knowledge of CNS fungal infections is vital for neurologists.
  • Understanding symptoms, signs, diagnostics, and treatments is imperative.
  • This review aids in managing these challenging infections.

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