Diagnosis and management of brain abscess

Over the past 20 years, the diagnosis and management of brain abscess has been facilitated by a number of technologic advances that have resulted in a significant reduction in mortality. Despite these advances in technology, however, brain abscess remains a serious disease. In this article the nature, pathogenesis, and diagnosis of brain abscesses are discussed. Issues regarding surgical versus nonsurgical management, optimal surgical therapy, choice and duration of antibiotics, and the use of corticosteroids are examined in terms of their impact on mortality and long-term neurologic sequelae.