👉 Infection, particularly when it involves the nervous system, refers to the invasion and multiplication of pathogens—such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites—within neural tissues or structures like the brain and spinal cord. This process can lead to inflammation, known as neuroinflammation, which disrupts normal neuronal function and can cause a range of symptoms from mild discomfort to severe neurological deficits. Pathogens may enter the nervous system through various routes, including the bloodstream, peripheral nerves, or direct invasion. Once inside, they can trigger an immune response, leading to the release of inflammatory mediators like cytokines and chemokines, which recruit immune cells to the site of infection. While this response aims to eliminate the pathogen, it can also cause collateral damage to healthy neural tissue, potentially resulting in conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis, or neurodegenerative diseases. The nervous system's complex network of neurons and glial cells is particularly vulnerable to these disruptions, making infections a significant threat to neurological health.
