Central nervous system infections in intensive care patients

A wide variety of microorganisms may cause infections of the central nervous system. Infection causes well defined illnesses which may be generalized (meningitis, encephalitis), or focal (cerebral abscess, subdural empyema). This article discusses the aetiology, bacteriology, presentation and management of these conditions. They all carry serious morbidity and mortality and most patients are cared for in the critical care setting.