Brain abscess

Question 1

Causes of a brain abscess ?

Answer 1

spread from infection i.e. sinusitis, middle ear , dental, meningitis
septic emboli from endocarditis
trauma or surgery to the scalp
penetrating head injury

Question 2

treatment of brain abscess ?

Answer 2

IV 3rd generation cephalosporin (i.e. ceftriaxone) + gentamicin

surgery
- craniotomy and debridement of abscess

dexamethasone (for raised ICP)

Question 3

features of a brain abscess ?

Answer 3

fever
headache
focal neurology i.e. speech, seizures, confusion, motor, raised ICP etc