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Nonsurgical treatment of subdural empyema. Case report
Journal of Neurosurgery
|July 1, 1985
Abstract:
The nonsurgical treatment of a case of interhemispheric subdural empyema is reported. At the time of diagnosis, the patient had a mild decrease in consciousness and only moderate focal neurological deficits. Computerized tomography (CT) confirmed the limited (interhemispheric) extent of the intracranial infection. After drainage of the nasal sinuses and antibiotic treatment, the patient recovered, although the lesion was initially increased in size on CT scanning.
Insights
Nonsurgical treatment for interhemispheric subdural empyema was successful. This approach, involving sinus drainage and antibiotics, led to patient recovery despite initial CT scan increases.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Interhemispheric subdural empyema is a rare but serious intracranial infection.
- Prompt diagnosis and effective treatment are crucial for patient outcomes.
Observation:
- A case of interhemispheric subdural empyema with mild consciousness decrease and moderate neurological deficits was observed.
- Computerized tomography (CT) confirmed the infection's limited interhemispheric extent.
Findings:
- Nonsurgical management, including nasal sinus drainage and antibiotic therapy, was implemented.
- The intracranial lesion initially increased in size on CT scans during treatment.
- The patient ultimately recovered following the nonsurgical intervention.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential efficacy of nonsurgical treatment for select cases of interhemispheric subdural empyema.
- Early intervention with antibiotics and source control (sinus drainage) can lead to favorable outcomes.
- Further research may explore the role of conservative management in similar intracranial infections.