This volume deals with: the blood-parenchymal cell border under normal and pathological conditions causing brain edema; neuron-glial interactions and their disturbances in tissue damage; formation, propagation and resolution of brain edema; and finally, treatment of vasogenic and cytotoxic brain edema. In the basic science approaches, emphasis is given to newly discovered molecules, such as vascular endothelial growth factor, which might control permeability of the blood-brain barrier, for example, in brain tumours. The complex issue of mediator compounds of secondary brain damage is further developed as to its manifold involvement. The current volume provides ample opportunities, particularly for newcomers in the field, to obtain up-to-date information on the subject of brain edema, concerning not only cutting-edge research at the basic science level, but also the complex clinical situation as to its pathophysiology and treatment.