Current epidemiological trends of brain abscess: a clinicopathological study

Abstract

Abstract Aims: To determine the current epidemiological trends, clinical presentation and commonest organism of brain abscess in this part of the country. Material and Methods: 104 cases admitted during August 2009 to July 2016 in the Department of neurosurgery of Dr RMLIMS Lucknow were included in the study. Detailed clinical history was taken and detailed neurological examination was done. Relevant laboratory investigations were done as needed along with CT scan and /or MRI brain. Patients were managed by aspiration or surgical excision and aspirated material sent for microbiological examination. Results were collected and analyzed. Results: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) was the commonest cause of infection in 54.81% cases. Trauma was encountered in 10.58%% cases. Other causes were haematogenous spread of infection, dental caries and immunodeficiency. No source could be identified in 23 patients (22.11%). Conclusion: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is still a major cause of brain abscess in developing country like India which is a benign curable disease and should not be neglected. Prompt diagnosis and treatment allows immediate decompression of mass reduces duration of antibiotic stay and minimizes treatment cost.