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Published on: October 2, 2018

A pneumococcal brain abscess: a case report

Rashmi Belodu1, Nagarathna S, Ravikumar R

  • 1Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology, Basaveshwara Medical College , Chitradurga, Karnataka - 575002, India .

Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research : JCDR
|October 3, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Streptococcus pneumoniae rarely causes brain abscesses. This case highlights a temporal lobe abscess successfully treated with surgery and antibiotics, demonstrating a good patient outcome.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurosurgery

Background:

  • Brain abscesses are uncommon, particularly those caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.
  • Temporal lobe abscesses can present as mass lesions, mimicking other neurological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a rare case of Streptococcus pneumoniae brain abscess.
  • To describe the diagnostic and treatment approach for a temporal lobe abscess.

Main Methods:

  • Clinical presentation and neurological examination.
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan for diagnosis.
  • Surgical aspiration and histopathological analysis of the abscess.
  • Laboratory investigation of pus for microbial identification.
  • Treatment with surgical excision and prolonged antibiotic therapy.

Main Results:

  • A temporal lobe abscess was diagnosed based on clinical and CT findings.
  • Histopathology confirmed an organizing abscess.
  • Laboratory analysis identified Streptococcus pneumoniae as the causative agent.
  • Complete surgical excision and antibiotic treatment resulted in a favorable outcome.

Conclusions:

  • Streptococcus pneumoniae is a rare but potential cause of brain abscess.
  • Multimodal treatment including surgery and antibiotics is effective for temporal lobe abscesses.
  • Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for good patient outcomes.
Keywords:
Brain abscessIntracranial lesionMass effectStreptococcus pneumonia

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