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Published on: March 26, 2019

[Analysis of subdural intracraneal empyemas in a third level hospital]

M A Hernández-Hernández1, M A Ballesteros-Sanz, M Gutiérrez-Cuadra

  • 1Servicio de Medicina Intensiva, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Avda, Valdecilla, s/n, E-39008 Santander (Cantabria), España. mahernandez@humv.es

Revista De Neurologia
|March 28, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Intracranial subdural empyema (ISE) is a rare but serious infection. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for reducing high mortality rates in patients with this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurosurgery

Context:

  • Intracranial subdural empyema (ISE) presents with non-specific symptoms, complicating early diagnosis.
  • This retrospective study analyzes a 15-year period of ISE cases at a tertiary university hospital.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of intracranial subdural empyema.
  • To highlight the importance of timely therapeutic approaches in managing ISE.

Summary:

  • The study included five male patients with ISE, predominantly originating from otic and sinusal infections.
  • Diagnosis via CT scan revealed left-hemisphere localization in most cases. Treatment involved antibiotics and craniotomy for surgical drainage.
  • High morbimortality (40%) was observed, emphasizing the need for prompt intervention.

Impact:

  • Findings underscore the critical role of early diagnosis and surgical evacuation in improving outcomes for intracranial subdural empyema.
  • This research contributes to understanding the management of a rare but severe neurological infection.

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