Brain abscess history and symptoms
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Symptoms of brain abscess may develop slowly, over a period of 2 weeks, or they may develop suddenly. The most common symptoms include fever, headache, and other neurological problems such as hemiparesis or aphasia.[1]
History
Obtaining the history is the most important aspect of making a diagnosis of a brain abscess. It provides insight into cause, precipitating factors and associated conditions. Complete history will help determine the correct therapy and helps in determining the prognosis. Specific areas of focus when obtaining a history from the patient include:
- History of a clinical triad of fever, headaches, and focal neurological deficits.
- Immunosuppression
Symptoms
Common symptoms of brain abscess include:[2][3]
- Confusion
- Decreased movement
- Decreased sensation
- Decreasing responsiveness
- Drowsiness
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Inattention
- Irritability
- Loss of coordination and muscle function
- Nausea
- Seizures
- Visual disturbance
- Vomiting
References
- ↑ Brouwer, MC; Coutinho, JM; van de Beek, D (Mar 4, 2014). "Clinical characteristics and outcome of brain abscess: systematic review and meta-analysis.". Neurology 82 (9): 806–13. doi:10.1212/WNL.0000000000000172. PMID 24477107
- ↑ Ferri, Fred (2015). Ferri's clinical advisor 2015 : 5 books in 1. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier/Mosby. ISBN 978-0323083751.
- ↑ Nath A. Brain abscess and parameningeal infections. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 438.