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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
07:26
Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
Cerebral abscess of odontogenic origin
Anastassios I Mylonas1, Fotios H Tzerbos, Maria Mihalaki
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 'Metropolitan' Hospital, N. Faliro, Piraeus, Greece. draimylo@otenet.gr
Summary
A rare cerebral abscess in a 54-year-old man was successfully treated by addressing the underlying dental infection. This case highlights the critical link between oral health and serious brain infections.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dentistry
Background:
- Cerebral abscesses are rare, life-threatening infections.
- Dental infections are an occasional source of bacteria for cerebral abscesses.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old male presented with hemiparesis and seizures.
- Diagnosis revealed a left parietal lobe cerebral abscess.
- Oral examination showed severe periodontal disease, caries, and periapical pathology.
Findings:
- Treatment involved intravenous antibiotics, craniotomy, abscess resection, and dental surgery.
- The patient experienced an uneventful recovery.
- Neurological deficits fully resolved 29 months post-surgery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing odontogenic infections as a potential cause of cerebral abscesses.
- Prompt and comprehensive treatment, including dental source control, is crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Highlights the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration between neurologists and dentists in managing such cases.
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