Utility of Optic Nerve Ultrasonography in Assessing Cerebral Inflammation and Intracranial Hypertension in Patients With Cerebral Impairment

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of optic nerve ultrasound to detect signs of raised intracranial pressure and persistent inflammation in patients with brain damage. This observational study focuses on patients admitted with suspected meningitis, encephalitis, stroke, or cerebral tumors. The goal is to assess how well optic nerve ultrasound can estimate cerebral inflammation and cerebral edema, which may help speed up treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes. The study involves two groups: one with infectious brain conditions like meningitis or encephalitis, and another with non-infectious neurological conditions such as stroke or brain tumors. Participants will undergo daily assessments including optic nerve ultrasound to measure the optic nerve sheath diameter, consciousness evaluations using validated scales, and transcranial Doppler to assess brain blood flow. Additional tests include CT scans, lumbar punctures to measure cerebrospinal fluid pressure, and blood sampling for inflammation markers. These procedures will be conducted daily or at specific intervals during the first week of hospitalization. Participants will be closely monitored with daily clinical evaluations and imaging over the first seven days of hospital stay. Data collected will include optic nerve sheath diameter, consciousness scores, cerebral blood flow indices, and laboratory markers of inflammation and neuronal injury. The study will also review 28-day mortality, quality of life, and complication rates. Consent procedures account for patients who may lack capacity initially, with consent obtained from legal representatives and later directly from patients when possible. The study is expected to complete by December 2027 with about 200 participants.

Optic Nerve Ultrasound for Assessing Cerebral Inflammation and Intracranial Hypertension in Cerebral Pathologies