Brain Abscess

Overview

A brain abscess is a rare but serious condition involving a pocket of pus forming in the brain due to infection. It can develop as a result of an infection elsewhere in the body or following head trauma or surgery. Brain abscesses require urgent medical treatment and often necessitate neurosurgical intervention alongside specialist rehabilitation, which we offer at Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital.

Causes of Brain Abscesses

Common causes include:

• Bacterial or fungal infections spreading from the ears, sinuses, lungs, or bloodstream
• Head trauma or neurosurgery allowing infection to enter the brain
• Weakened immune system (e.g. due to HIV, cancer treatment, or immunosuppressive medication)
• Congenital heart defects, which may allow bacteria to bypass the lungs’ filtering process

Symptoms of a Brain Abscess

Symptoms may develop rapidly or over a few days and include:

• Severe headache (often persistent and not relieved by medication)
• Fever and chills
• Neurological deficits (e.g. weakness, speech difficulties, vision changes)
• Seizures
• Nausea and vomiting
• Personality or behavioural changes
• Confusion, drowsiness, or decreased consciousness

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:

• Neurological Examination
• CT or MRI Scans to detect the abscess and its location
• Blood Tests to check for infection
• Lumbar Puncture (used cautiously due to risk of brain herniation)
• Aspiration or Biopsy to identify the specific bacteria or fungi involved

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the size, cause, and location of the abscess:

• Intravenous Antibiotics or Antifungals to target infection
• Surgical Drainage or Aspiration via burr hole or craniotomy
• Management of Intracranial Pressure
• Rehabilitation Therapy: Neurological rehabilitation at Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital supports cognitive and physical recovery following treatment. This includes physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and psychological support.

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Our Resident Neurologist

Dr Weatherall is very welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.

Dr Mark Weatherall

Consultant Neurologist

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