CNS Infections ☺️ Flashcards
1
Q
Possible CNS infections
A
Brain or SC
- abscess
- meningitis
- empyema
- ventriculitis
- encephalitis
2
Q
Important questions to ask in a history
A
Recent skull infection => CNS spread
- otitis media
- sinusitis
- mastoiditis
Recent internal infection
-heart, lung, skin, abdo, pelvic
Infection via bloodstream more likely in IC
- HIV
- chemo
- immunosuppressed?
Infection after head trauma
-fracture, wounds
Infection after recent surgery
- dental
- head surgery
- valve, implants
Recent travel and vaccinations
3
Q
Key investigations
A
Blood culture
Head CT/MRI
CT body
Echo
Dental review
4
Q
Management
A
Urgent neurosurgical review
- ABx
- aspiration, drainage
Surgery needed if mass effect/neuro deficit
5
Q
Presentation
A
Headache - not relieved by simple analgesia Fever Seizure N+V Stiff neck Visual changes
Mental state change
Focal neuro deficit
