Brain Abscess

Question 1

What is a brain abscess?

Answer 1

A collection of microbes within the brain parenchyma

Question 2

What are risk factors for brain abscess?

Answer 2

• Male
• Under 30

Question 3

What causes brain abscess?

Answer 3

• Extension of sepsis from middle ear/sinuses
• Trauma to the scalp
• Penetrating head injuries
• Embolic events with endocarditis
• Dental procedures/infection

Question 4

How do brain abscess present?

Answer 4

• Depends on the site of the abscess
• Dull, persistent headache
• Fever
• Focal neurology
• Nausea
• Seizures
• Papilledema

Question 5

How are brain abscesses investigated?

Answer 5

• FBC, CRP, Clotting, Blood cultures
• MRI with contrast/CT

Question 6

How are brain abscesses managed?

Answer 6

• Craniotomy with debridement of abscess cavity
• IV 3rd Gen Cephalosporin + Metronidazole
• Dexamethasone to manage ICP