Brain abscess

Brain abscess is a medical condition characterized by an accumulation of pus within the brain, typically resulting from a bacterial infection. It is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical treatment.

Causes

A brain abscess can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is a bacterial infection, which can occur as a result of a sinus infection, ear infection, dental abscess, or pneumonia. Other causes can include a skull fracture or surgery on the brain. In some cases, the cause of a brain abscess is unknown.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a brain abscess can vary depending on the location and size of the abscess. Common symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and changes in mental status such as confusion or drowsiness. In severe cases, a brain abscess can lead to seizures, coma, or death.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a brain abscess typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans are commonly used to identify the location and size of the abscess. In some cases, a lumbar puncture may be performed to analyze the cerebrospinal fluid.

Treatment

Treatment for a brain abscess typically involves a combination of antibiotics and surgery. Antibiotics are used to treat the underlying infection, while surgery is often necessary to drain the abscess and relieve pressure on the brain. In some cases, steroids may be used to reduce swelling and inflammation.

Prognosis

The prognosis for a brain abscess depends on a variety of factors, including the size and location of the abscess, the patient's overall health, and the speed at which treatment is initiated. With prompt and appropriate treatment, many patients can recover fully. However, some may experience long-term neurological deficits as a result of the abscess.

See also

• Infection
• Neurology
• Neurosurgery

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  Brain abscess
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  Brain abscess at MRI (T1 + contrast) showing a small ring-enhancing lesion with mild surrounding edema adjacent to the ventricular catheter and ventricular dilatation.