Infections of the central nervous system (CNS) contribute significantly to the global burden of disease. The burden of these CNS infection complications and capacity of neurosurgical teams internationally to treat them is not well characterized. A key element in providing better care and resources is understanding the burden of disease as well as the efficacy of the interventions currently in place. This study aims to inform potential strategies to address the burden of disease adapted to different regions. This knowledge is important because, while the epidemiology and medical management of infectious diseases is well studied we know little about the surgical needs and care of patients.
Primary Aim
To describe the profile of patients presenting with CNS infections who may require surgical management across a wide range of geographic and socio-economic environments (including patient demographics, baseline clinical characteristics, indications for surgery, surgical procedure, radiology, and microbiological diagnosis).
Secondary Aims
To describe the current referral, resource, and management pathways.
To determine the differences in current indications for conservative management vs surgery.
To examine the relationship between seasonal fluctuation and incidence of CNS infection.
To compare outcomes for patients with de novo CNS infections between centres.
To identify targets for future global health intervention and research.
All consecutive patients with de novo CNS infections for whom:
1) surgical consult is obtained, or
2) who are admitted to a surgical unit within participating hospitals during the study period,
whether or not a surgical procedure is undertaken.
Patients will be recruited at each centre over any 60-day period of their choosing.
All patients within each 60-day collection period must be included.
All collected data will be uploaded onto the secure online data collection form REDCap.