Antimicrobial penetration into cerebrospinal fluid.

The complex physiology of the blood-brain barrier and the characteristics of an antimicrobial which govern its distribution into the brain are poorly understood. Likewise, available data regarding CSF antimicrobial concentrations after extra-CNS administration, as tabulated in this review, are inadequate. Because of the potentially dire consequences that result from inappropriately treated CNS infections, large cooperative studies using standardized methodology are needed. Suggestions for such methods are outlined.