Meningitis and encephalitis management in the ICU

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Meningitis and encephalitis frequently necessitate intensive care unit (ICU) admission.
• Nosocomial meningitis is a significant concern in developed countries' ICUs.
• Advances in managing central nervous system (CNS) infections are crucial for critically ill patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an update on the clinical management of meningitis and encephalitis in the ICU.
• To review recent studies (since 2017) focusing on advancements in CNS infection care.
• To highlight key developments in diagnostics and therapeutics for brain infections.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature and studies published since 2017.
• Focus on clinical management strategies applicable in the ICU setting.
• Synthesis of information on diagnostic and treatment approaches for various pathogens.

Main Results:

• Emerging diagnostic methods and improved antibiotic strategies for CNS penetration.
• Increased focus on infection prevention for nosocomial meningitis.
• Application of neuromonitoring techniques in managing critically ill patients with CNS infections.

Conclusions:

• Continuous advancements in diagnostics and therapeutics for CNS infections are evident.
• Neuromonitoring and brain resuscitation are vital for preserving brain function in critically ill patients.
• These strategies offer potential for improved outcomes in meningitis and encephalitis management.