|
What is a brain abscess?
A brain abscess is a collection of pus that has accumulated in a cavity within the brain as a defensive reaction of the tissue to prevent the spread of infectious materials to other parts of the brain. Some are deep, but more common ones are associated with sinusitis near the meninges. Click here for more information about brain abscesses.
|
What clinical findings (signs, symptoms,
and test results) indicate a brain abscess?
General symptoms include:
The white blood count would be high, suggesting an infection. A Head CT scan and/or MRI will typically reveal the mass. A lumbar puncture or spinal tap cannot be performed with this condition.
|
|
Treatment Options
Depending on the location of the abscess and due to the risky nature of brain surgery, antibiotics are used for treatment to reduce it if possible. Surgery, consisting of opening and draining the abscess, is needed if the pressure increases, the size is not affected by medication, or there is a risk of rupture. A brain abscess is usually deadly without treatment.
|
|
Science Links
Brain function
Understanding the brain
What are bacteria?
|
