Space occupying lesion
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Govindavarjhulla, M.B.B.S. [2]
Overview
Intracranial space occupying lesions are tumors or abscesses present within the cranium or skull. These lesions put pressure on the adjacent brain tissue causing its damage.
Pathophysiology
- Tumors of brain may develop focally or can be of metastatic origin. They grow in size causing focal tissue damage by pressure and infiltration.
- Bleeding into the brain tissue causes formation of hematoma. If these hematoma's get infected they may turn into abscess
History and symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Change in mental status
- Seizures
- Focal symptoms of brain damage
- Associated co-morbid conditions like tuberculosis, etc
Diagnosis
Blood tests
- Total blood count, hemoglobin levels for general condition of the person.
- Electrolyte levels
- Serum BNP(Brain natriuretic peptide)
Biopsy
- Biopsy of the lesion is needed to know the nature of the lesion.
X ray
- X- ray skull is quite a non specific test, but useful if any of the lesions are calcified.
- X- ray chest may be warranted if any metastatic tumor is suspected.
CT and MRI
- These tests are of higher value to detect intracranial lesions.
- They have higher sensitivity and specificity compared to X-rays.