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Infected subfural hematoma: three case reports involving gram-negative organisms
The American Journal of the Medical Sciences
|January 1, 1975
Summary
Infected subdural hematomas, caused by bacteria like Salmonella and Escherichia, require prompt drainage and antibiotics. Early diagnosis involves recognizing symptoms such as fever and headache in patients with prior head trauma.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Subdural hematomas can become infected, a rare but serious complication.
- Infection typically arises during bacteremia, with the hematoma membrane limiting spread.
- Previous head trauma is a common predisposing factor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present three case reports of infected subdural hematoma.
- To illustrate the clinical features and diagnostic challenges of this rare condition.
- To emphasize the importance of accurate bacteriologic identification.
Main Methods:
- Presentation of three clinical cases of infected subdural hematoma.
- Review of clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and treatment outcomes.
- Bacteriologic identification of causative agents (Salmonella and Escherichia).
Main Results:
- Two cases involved Salmonella infection, and one involved Escherichia infection.
- Clinical signs included fever, headache, nuchal rigidity, and focal neurological deficits.
- Successful treatment involved surgical drainage and systemic antibiotic therapy.
Conclusions:
- Infected subdural hematoma is a rare entity with specific clinical indicators.
- Prompt recognition of symptoms in patients with head trauma is crucial for diagnosis.
- Effective management requires surgical drainage and targeted antibiotic treatment based on bacteriologic findings.