Medical imaging and CNS infections.

West Nile virus, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and new-variant CJD are emergent infectious diseases that affect the brain. Although incidence of these infections is low compared with other CNS diseases such as viral or bacterial meningitis, the reasons for their emergence are complex. Scientists believe that unique combinations of genetic, environmental and social factors have caused these rare pathogens to become more common within human populations. Because the causes of brain infections are difficult to diagnose and treat, medical imaging is an important screening, diagnostic and monitoring tool. By supplying pathogen-specific visual clues, medical imaging studies provide the evidence that allow clinicians to begin life-saving supportive care and treatment.