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Brain abscess in Saudi Arabia
A W Ibrahim1, S M al-Rajeh, U M Chowdhary
1Neurosurgery Department, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, King Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
Neurosurgical Review
|January 1, 1990
Summary
This study analyzed 26 brain abscess cases in Saudi Arabia, finding Streptococcus as the most common cause. Chronic ear and sinus infections were major risk factors, with epilepsy and a 15.3% mortality rate observed.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Brain abscess incidence varies globally.
- A significant number of neurosurgery admissions are due to brain abscesses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the characteristics of brain abscess cases treated at King Faisal University and Dammam Central Hospital.
- To identify common microorganisms, predisposing factors, affected areas, complications, and mortality rates.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 26 brain abscess patients.
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical presentation, microbiological findings, and outcomes.
- Data collected over a six-year period (1982-1988).
Main Results:
- Young males were predominantly affected (M/F ratio 3.3:1).
- Streptococcus was the most frequent microorganism (38.4%), with mixed infections in 15.3%.
- Chronic otitis media and paranasal sinusitis were significant predisposing factors (57.6%); temporo-parietal area was the commonest site; epilepsy occurred in 30.7%; mortality rate was 15.3%.
Conclusions:
- Brain abscesses represent a notable proportion of neurosurgical admissions in the region.
- Prompt identification and management of predisposing conditions like chronic otitis media and sinusitis are crucial.
- High rates of complications like epilepsy and significant mortality underscore the severity of brain abscesses.