Neuroimaging Patterns of Intracranial Infections: Meningitis, Cerebritis, and Their Complications

Abstract

Neuroimaging provides rapid, noninvasive visualization of central nervous system infections for optimal diagnosis and management. Generalizable and characteristic imaging patterns help radiologists distinguish different types of intracranial infections including meningitis and cerebritis from a variety of bacterial, viral, fungal, and/or parasitic causes. Here, we describe key radiologic patterns of meningeal enhancement and diffusion restriction through profiles of meningitis, cerebritis, abscess, and ventriculitis. We discuss various imaging modalities and recent diagnostic advances such as deep learning through a survey of intracranial pathogens and their radiographic findings. Moreover, we explore critical complications and differential diagnoses of intracranial infections.

Keywords: Abscess; Central nervous system; Cerebritis; Glymphatics; Infection; Meningitis; Neuroimaging; Ventriculitis.