Research Article Open Access

Brain Abscess Complicating an Intracranial Hemorrhage

M.D. Vikramjit Mukherjee1 and M.D. Maria Elena Ruiz1
  • 1 Washington Hospital Center, United States

Abstract

Problem statement: A brain abscess presenting after an Intracranial Hemorrhage (ICH) is an extremely rare occurrence. Diagnosis in this setting is difficult, given the absence of key clinical features, such as neurologic deficit and headaches. Since a delay in the diagnosis of a brain abscess leads to poor outcomes, there should be a high index of suspicion for abscess in patients developing fever after an ICH. Approach: This is a case report describing the presentation, hospital course and management of a patient who was diagnosed with a brain abscess following an ICH. Results: A review of literature revealed only 15 such cases. The basal ganglia are the most common sites of infection. The mean interval between the ICH and the systemic infection which resulted in an abscess was 9.8 days. Time from infection to brain abscess formation was 8-140 days, with a mean of 20 days. There was a delay in diagnosis in earlier case reports. Conclusion: Although brain abscess is a rare complication after ICH, because of the high mortality and morbidity, it should be considered in patients who develop fever after ICH.

American Journal of Infectious Diseases
Volume 6 No. 2, 2010, 40-43

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3844/ajidsp.2010.40.43

Submitted On: 24 June 2010 Published On: 30 June 2010

How to Cite: Mukherjee, M. V. & Ruiz, M. M. E. (2010). Brain Abscess Complicating an Intracranial Hemorrhage. American Journal of Infectious Diseases, 6(2), 40-43. https://doi.org/10.3844/ajidsp.2010.40.43

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Keywords

  • ICH
  • abscess
  • Serratia
  • CVA