Neuroimaging of the Most Common Meningitis and Encephalitis of Adults: A Narrative Review

Teresa Perillo1, Raffaella Capasso1, Antonio Pinto1

  • 1Department of Radiology, CTO Hospital, AORN dei Colli, 80141 Naples, Italy.

Insights

Meningitis and encephalitis are brain infections requiring prompt diagnosis. This review details Magnetic Resonance Imaging findings for common meningitis and encephalitis cases, aiding clinical management.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Radiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Meningitis involves meninges infection, presenting with fever, neck stiffness, and headache.
  • Encephalitis is a brain infection causing fever, altered mental status, and seizures.
  • Meningitis and encephalitis can coexist, leading to severe outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To illustrate imaging findings of common meningitis and encephalitis.
  • To highlight the role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in diagnosis and management.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on imaging findings.
  • Analysis of Magnetic Resonance Imaging characteristics in meningitis and encephalitis.

Main Results:

  • Detailed description of imaging findings for various types of meningitis and encephalitis.
  • Emphasis on Magnetic Resonance Imaging's ability to detect complications and rule out mimics.

Conclusions:

  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for meningitis and encephalitis.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging is essential for evaluating these conditions and their complications.

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