Brain Abscess

A brain abscess is a localized collection of pus within the brain parenchyma, resulting from bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infection. Pathophysiology involves hematogenous spread, contiguous infection (e.g., sinusitis or otitis), or post-surgical inoculation. Clinical presentation includes headache, fever, focal neurological deficits, and seizures. Diagnosis relies on neuroimaging (MRI or CT with contrast) and microbiological analysis. Management includes antimicrobial therapy tailored to the causative organism and surgical drainage if indicated; prognosis depends on abscess size, location, and timeliness of treatment.