Intracerebral abscesses: outcome following management in the CT era.
BACKGROUND
There are no pathognomonic presenting features of intracerebral abscesses. Their clinical features could be confused with those of a tumour or any other space occupying lesion.


METHODS
We analyzed the symptoms, predisposing factors, diagnostic modalities, prevalent causative microbes, management and outcome in 11 patients, for whom complete records were available and who were managed for confirmed intracerebral abscess in our Neurosurgical Unit from 1996 to 2000 and compared our findings with those from other series.


RESULTS
In these patients focal neurological deficit was the most common clinical feature, trauma was the most predisposing event and Computerised Tomography (CT) Scanning remained the most dependable diagnostic tool. In our practice, burr hole drainage augmented with a minimum of 4 weeks intravenous antibiotics, was the most frequently used treatment modality.


CONCLUSIONS
The outcome was satisfactory (ability to return to pre-morbid activities and duties, with no disabling neurological deficits) in 72.8% cases. There was one death. This modality remains an effective way of treating patients with intracebrebral abscess.
Emejulu
J K C
JK
Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, University College Hospital, P. M. B. 5111, lbadan, Nigeria.
Shokunbi
M T
MT
Malomo
A O
AO
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001921:Brain / Q000473:pathology; D001922:Brain Abscess / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004322:Drainage; D013354:Empyema, Subdural / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006785:Hospitals, University; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009549:Nigeria; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents