Central nervous system infections in the pediatric population.

ABSTRACT

Central nervous system infections and sequelae in the pediatric population may present differently depending on the patient's stage of development. Infections contracted from conception through the neonatal period may affect central nervous system formation, whereas infections acquired later tend to cause parenchymal destruction. This article discusses congenital, focal parenchymal, extra-axial, and diffuse parenchymal infections and their effect on the developing brain.