Biomedical subjects

Jeffrey A Rumbaugh

Publications and source records attributed to Jeffrey A Rumbaugh.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2006

Viruses and the brain: from inflammation to dementia.

Many viruses cause encephalitis, but understanding the mechanisms by which viral infection leads to encephalopathy or dementia remain elusive. In many cases, inflammation generated by the host's attempt to combat the infection is itself implicated as a primary factor in causing neuronal dysfunction or degeneration. In this review, we outline the current state of knowledge regarding the pathophysiology of CNS (central nervous system) injury in viral infection. We focus our review on the neuropathogenesis of HIV type 1 (HIV-1)-associated dementia, because, within this class of infection, it is the best studied. We will also discuss the key similarities and differences in the pathological mechanisms of other important viral encephalitides. Understanding these mechanisms should ultimately enable development of immunomodulatory therapies for treating these infections, as well as other neuro-inflammatory conditions.

AIDS Dementia Complex↗

PubMed2006

Developments in HIV neuropathogenesis.

Despite the fact that neurons are rarely infected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), neuronal loss is common in patients with HIV infection, likely due to the effects of viral proteins and inflammatory mediators on these cells. Despite the widespread use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), at least in developed nations, cognitive impairment and other neurological complications of HIV infection persist with devastating personal and socioeconomic consequences. Fortunately, we have made important advances in recent years in defining the molecular mechanisms by which HIV infection targets the nervous system for damage. Such understanding has opened numerous therapeutic options, which are only now beginning to be exploited. This review will highlight the current state of thought regarding the neuropathogenesis of HIV infection. It will summarize the most recent research looking at the roles of both viral and host factors in mediating HIV-induced neurological disease. Utilizing this knowledge base, a framework will be outlined for current and future therapeutic trials to prevent or improve neurological complications of HIV infection.

AIDS Dementia Complex↗

PubMed2005

Pseudomonas aeruginosa infective endocarditis presenting as bacterial meningitis.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a rare cause of infective endocarditis. The case of community-acquired P. aeruginosa infective endocarditis reported here is the first described in the literature to present as bacterial meningitis. Furthermore, new risk factors for P. aeruginosa infective endocarditis, including mitral annular calcification and re-use of insulin syringes, are proposed. Treatment of P. aeruginosa infective endocarditis complicated by bacterial meningitis is discussed.

Acyclovir↗