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Management of brain abscesses: where are we now?
Minwei Chen1, David C Y Low1,2,3, Sharon Y Y Low1,2,3
1Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore, Singapore.
Introduction:
Brain abscesses affect all age groups and are not peculiar to a particular country, race, or geographical location. It is a disease that, in the past, carried a high morbidity and mortality. With improvements in medical technology and expertise, outcomes have improved tremendously. The causative organisms vary vastly and have evolved with time. Treatment of brain abscesses is primarily with antimicrobial therapy but surgery plays a vital role in achieving better outcomes.
Content:
In this article, we review the literature to find out how the epidemiology of this disease has changed through the years and re-visit the basic pathological process of abscess evolution and highlight the new research in the biochemical pathways that initiate and regulate this process. We also highlight how magnetic resonance imaging and its various modalities have improved diagnostic accuracy. Finally, we discuss the pros and cons of traditional open surgery versus newer minimally invasive methods.
Insights
Brain abscesses are treatable infections impacting all ages, with outcomes improving due to medical advances. Treatment combines antibiotics and surgery for better results.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Brain abscesses historically presented high morbidity and mortality.
- Advances in medical technology and expertise have significantly improved patient outcomes.
- Causative organisms of brain abscesses are diverse and have evolved over time.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolving epidemiology of brain abscesses.
- To re-examine the pathological process and biochemical pathways of abscess formation.
- To evaluate diagnostic advancements and compare surgical treatment options.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of brain abscess epidemiology and pathology.
- Analysis of research on biochemical pathways in abscess development.
- Assessment of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) modalities for diagnosis.
- Comparison of traditional open surgery versus minimally invasive surgical techniques.
Main Results:
- Epidemiology of brain abscesses has changed over the years.
- New research sheds light on biochemical pathways regulating abscess formation.
- Advanced MRI techniques enhance diagnostic accuracy.
- Both antimicrobial therapy and surgical intervention are crucial for effective treatment.
Conclusions:
- Brain abscess treatment has evolved significantly, leading to better outcomes.
- Understanding the evolving epidemiology and pathology is key to management.
- Multimodal approaches, including advanced diagnostics and tailored surgery, are essential.
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