Prenatal and neonatal infections of the central nervous system

Abstract

Neuro-imaging is important in newborns with a suspected bacterial, fungal, and viral CNS infection. Bacterial and fungal infections can have an early or late onset. Viral infections can be acquired in utero with a possible effect on migration when occurring in the first trimester, or can occur in the perinatal period. With experience, brain injury patterns can be recognized. Serial imaging is important in bacterial and fungal infections, to assess complications such as abscess formation and hydrocephalus. At least one MRI scan should be performed in a neonate with a bacterial or viral meningitis complicated by seizures and in infants with a congenital CMV infection, to show the full extent of CNS involvement and to improve outcome prediction.