Neuroimaging of the Most Common Meningitis and Encephalitis of Adults: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Meningitis is the infection of the meninges, which are connective tissue membranes covering the brain, and it most commonly affects the leptomeninges. Clinically, meningitis may present with fever, neck stiffness, altered mental status, headache, vomiting, and neurological deficits. Encephalitis is an infection of the brain, which usually presents with fever, altered mental status, neurological deficits, and seizure. Meningitis and encephalitis are serious conditions which could also coexist, with high morbidity and mortality, thus requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment. Imaging plays an important role in the clinical management of these conditions, especially Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It is indicated to exclude mimics and evaluate the presence of complications. The aim of this review is to depict imaging findings of the most common meningitis and encephalitis.