Brain Abscess

What is Brain Abscess?

Brain abscess is a condition which leads to a collection of pus caused by infectious material in the brain. Brain abscess is generally caused because of bacterial infection in people with weakened immune system. Lung and heart infection are one of the most common causes of brain abscess. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of Brain Abscess include:

  • Fever
  • Decrease in responsiveness
  • Neck stiffness
  • Decreased sensation
  • Sensitivity towards lights

Causes

Causes of Brain abscess include-

  • Congenital heart disease
  • Weekend immune system
  • Cancer
  • Consumption of Corticosteroids or chemotherapy

Risks

Conditions that increase the risk of Brain Abscess include:

  • Head Injury
  • Sinus
  • HIV
  • Meningitis
  • Immunosuppressant Drugs

Prevention

The disease can be prevented by:

  • Immunization
  • Consumption of Prophylactic antibiotics
  • Safe sexual activities
  • Avoiding drug abuse

How is it diagnosed?

The preferred method used for diagnosing brain abscess is a neurological exam which helps to assess the pressure inside the skull. The specialist may conduct the following tests to diagnose brain a...

How is it treated?

The treatment for the disease includes:

..

  • Oral medication

    If the patient has a small abscess or the abscess is deep in the brain, the specialist prefers oral medication and bed rest for the patient. Medications for fungal infection, immunity and inflammation in the brain is often prescribed by the specialist.

  • Brain surgery

    In this surgery, the specialist removes a part of the skull to drain the abscess. A sample of the pus is used to find out the cause of the infection. Specialist prefers surgery if the pressure in the brain increases or the abscess is more than 2cm.

When do I contact the doctor?

Look for immediate medical help if you see any signs or indications of a brain abscess, regardless of the possibility that they appear or vanish.

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How does Medanta provide care?

Medanta Institute of Neurosciences is an integrated institute with a dedicated team of doctors supported by the latest technology which aims to provide comprehensive and multidisciplinary care for disorders of the brain and spine. The institute ha..

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