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 of Brain Abscess include: Fever Decrease in responsiveness Neck stiffness Decreased sensation Sensitivity towards lights
Causes of Brain abscess include- Congenital heart disease Weekend immune system Cancer Consumption of Corticosteroids or chemotherapy
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 abscess: Blood culture Chest X-ray Electroencephalogram MRI scan Complete blood count test
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.
The disease can be prevented by: Immunization Consumption of Prophylactic antibiotics Safe sexual activities Avoiding drug abuse
