Abscess of the brain: causes, symptoms and treatment

Abscess of the brain is a dangerous condition, in which a local accumulation of purulent masses is observed in the cranial cavity. Such pathology is manifested due to the influence of various factors of the external and internal environment, but in any case the patient needs immediate medical assistance.

Brain abscess: the causes of the onset

In fact, a purulent process can occur for various reasons. In about 20% of cases, the infection penetrates into the brain tissue from the external environment, which happens with open craniocerebral trauma. An abscess of the brain can be a complication after surgery.

However, most often the infection gets into the brain tissue from other foci of inflammation in the body. In particular, the abscess is often the result of a purulent process in the nasal sinuses. Sometimes the cause is otitis. In addition, pathogenic microorganisms can be carried along with the blood flow from virtually any source of infection.

Abscess of the brain and its variants

The classification of such processes depends on the location of the accumulation of pus:

• With epidural abscesses purulent focus is placed above the surface of the hard shell of the brain.
• Subdural abscess is accompanied by accumulation of pus under the dura mater.
• With intracerebral processes, pus is formed directly in the brain tissues.

Brain abscess: symptoms

Such a disease usually begins acutely. In the first few days, the main symptoms of intoxication appear . A sick person complains of weakness, decreased appetite, drowsiness. There is also an increase in body temperature, chills, aches in the body.

As the disease develops, the amount of pus increases - there is an increase in intracranial pressure, which causes other characteristic symptoms. In particular, cerebral abscess is accompanied by severe headaches, vomiting, sometimes convulsions and epileptic seizures. Depending on the location of purulent clusters, other violations are possible. For example, in such a state, damage to the optic nerves, mental disorders, a decrease in the heart rate, etc., are often observed.

In any case, it is extremely important to consult a doctor in time. The fact is that in the absence of treatment, necrosis of nervous tissues begins, which, of course, is dangerous not only for health, but also for the life of the patient.

Abscess of the brain: treatment

As already mentioned, most often the cause of the formation of an abscess is a bacterial infection. Therefore, at the initial stages of the development of the disease, appropriate therapy with antibiotics is carried out. The choice of drugs in this case depends on the type of pathogen and its sensitivity to a particular group of antibacterial drugs. Patients are also prescribed vitamins and nootropic drugs.

In more severe cases, surgical intervention is indicated - during surgery, the surgeon gently removes the capsule with pus. After surgical treatment, antibacterial therapy is additionally carried out. With a timely begun treatment, the prognosis for the patients is quite favorable.