brain abscess Flashcards
def brain abscess
Localized area of necrosis within the brain parenchyma often from infectious or traumatic origins
most common organism causing brain abscess?
staphylococcus - aureus and epidermidis
streptococcus - pneumoniae
what triad might we see in brain abscess pts?
fever, headache, and focal neurologic deficit
timeline of brain abscess vs stroke
brain abscess - subacute ➔ days to weeks ➔ usually present around 8d
stroke ➔ acute ➔ min-hours
how to dx brain abscess?
brain biopsy ➔ aspiration to estbalish dx and id etiological agent
what ix to order for brain abscess?
CBC, ESR/CRP, serologic tests for infection, blood culture x2
imaging: CT/MRI ➔ increase ICP
LP for csf analysis
how to tx brain abscess
decrease ICP
high dose abx +/- apirations
consider IV mannitol > dex
refer neurosurg and infectious disease
