Neuro-Infectious Diseases

Neuro-Infectious Diseases

We offer specialized care that combines expertise in neurology and infectious diseases.

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Why choose UCSF Health for neuro-infectious disease care?

UCSF Health neuro-infectious disease specialists treat infections affecting the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord and nerves. We're one of the few programs in the country offering care from neurologists and infectious disease physicians with advanced training in neurologic infections. This combined expertise helps streamline your care and enables highly tailored treatments that address all aspects of your condition.

You receive state-of-the-art testing so we can make an accurate diagnosis. Then we develop a personalized care plan to treat the infection and manage your symptoms.


Comprehensive neuro-infectious disease care at UCSF Health

We treat people with all types of neuro-infectious conditions, including:

  • Brain abscesses
  • Neurocysticercosis (parasite infection)
  • Coccidioidal meningitis (Valley Fever)
  • Neurological complications from HIV, syphilis, tuberculosis and other infections
  • Any neurological syndrome, such as encephalitis, meningitis or myelitis, caused by bacterial, fungal, viral or parasitic infections

You receive thorough, comprehensive care for these conditions at any stage of the disease. Your visit begins with a consultation and review of your medical history. If needed, we arrange for tests, such as:

  • Blood work
  • Neuroimaging
  • Lumbar puncture

We have access to advanced serological and molecular testing, such as metagenomic next-generation sequencing, to diagnose infections and monitor response to treatment. This information helps us create a highly tailored treatment plan for you.

Streamlined, personalized treatment for neuro-infectious diseases

Many hospitals require you to see multiple specialists to manage the infectious and neurological aspects of your care. At UCSF Health, an expert trained in both specialties provides this advanced care.

Your treatment plan may include:

  • Targeted antimicrobial therapy. You may need an antibiotic, antiviral or other medication, depending on the type of infection.
  • Anti-inflammatory medicines. Steroids and similar medications help manage inflammation caused by the infection.
  • Management of neurological complications. We treat related complications, such as headaches, seizures and other neurological symptoms.

Providers

Award-winning care

We've received national recognition for our excellence in care from U.S. News & World Report.

Patient materials

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