Neurological Infections

Neurological infections are a wide ranging set of diseases which involve the central and/or peripheral nervous systems. These infections can be caused by a variety of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. The resulting neurological symptoms usually present as damage to the nervous system, and may include such things as the loss of sensation, movement, or strength. Viral neurological infections often manifest in the form of encephalitis—inflammation of the brain—and can be caused by agents such as herpes simplex virus, Epstein-Barr virus, rabies, and West Nile virus. Herpes Simplex viral infections can cause inflammation of the brain, but can also affect the facial and trigeminal nerves. This can cause eye problems such as double vision and can also lead to facial paralysis. Rabies, a viral disease which is typically caused by a bite from an infected animal, can result in severe neurological symptoms such as confusion, agitation, paralysis, and coma. Bacterial neurological infections can be caused by a variety of pathogens, including streptococcus, mycobacteria, listeria, and Borrelia. Widely known bacterial infections such as meningitis and brain abscesses are both serious neurological infections, often requiring treatment with antibiotics. Listeria is a bacteria which can cause a severe form of infection known as meningoencephalitis, a combination of meningitis and encephalitis. This can lead to severe impairments of the brain and nervous system if left untreated. Fungal neurological infections are less common than bacterial or viral infections but can still be very serious. Fungal agents such as Cryptococcus, Coccidioides, and Histoplasma cause life-threatening illnesses such as meningitis, brain abscesses, and encephalitis. These diseases can cause severe neurological damage if left untreated. Finally, parasitic neurological infections such as cerebral malaria, neurocysticercosis, and echinococcosis are caused by a variety of different parasites. Malaria is caused by the bite of infected mosquitoes and can result in fever, seizures, and coma in its severe form. Neurocysticercosis is caused by taenia solium, a type of pork tapeworm, which can lead to seizures, visual disturbances, and even death. Neurological infections can be serious medical issues which often require prompt diagnosis and treatment. Thus, it is important to seek medical help if any of the signs and symptoms of a neurological infection are noticed, such as headaches, confusion, dizziness, and paralysis. Treatment for neurological infections can vary depending on the cause, but can involve antibiotics, anti-fungal drugs, or antiviral medications, depending on the pathogen.