Brain Abscess

A brain abscess is a life-threatening infection within the brain that originates as cerebritis and evolves into an encapsulated collection of purulent material. Epidemiologically, brain abscesses are seen more frequently in immunocompromised patients. The signs and symptoms of a brain abscess are influenced by the location and size of the infection, the causative pathogen, and the patient’s immune status and medical comorbidities. This diagnosis requires neurosurgical consultation for management and inpatient admission. The majority of patients undergo either needle aspiration or surgical excision. This is critical for obtaining a specimen for culture in order to direct accurate and specific antimicrobial therapy. Needle aspiration is more commonly utilized and has a lower mortality rate than surgical excision. Repeat imaging is required for any change in mental status. Empiric antibiotic selections are guided by the most likely source of infection and are adjusted for renal function.