Brain abscess

Question 1

Give some causes of a brain abscess.

Answer 1

Sepsis extending from the middle ear
Trauma
Surgery to the scalp
Embolic events from endocarditis

Question 2

What is the presentation of a brain abscess?

Answer 2

Commonly have raised ICP
- Nausea
- Papilloedema
- Seizures
Headache - dull, persistent
Fever
Focal neurology

Question 3

What investigations may be carried out to help diagnose a brain abscess?

Answer 3

CT
CXR
FBC
EEG
MRI
Blood Cx

Question 4

What is the management of a brain abscess?

Answer 4

Surgery
- Craniotomy and debridement of the abscess
IV antibiotics
- IV cephalosporin + metronidazole
Dexamethasone for raised ICP