Fever and neurologic conditions

Neurologic conditions are categorized as either those that cause a change in mental status or those that create a focal finding on physical examination. Neurologic abnormality associated with fever can be caused by a primary neurologic condition or one that does not originate in the central nervous system. Optimal management of such conditions requires high clinical suspicion and a broad differential diagnosis, which facilitates rapid recognition and effective treatment. A thorough history and physical examination are key determinants in accurately diagnosing neurologic conditions associated with fever, often requiring acquisition of collateral information from persons other than the patient.