Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 26, 2025

Preparation of Agar Bead Embedded Mycobacterium abscessus to Inoculate Immunocompetent Mice Intratracheally
Published on: April 25, 2025
A Case of Brain Abscess Caused by Actinomyces Cardiffensis and Parvimonas Micra
Miho Takahashi, Yasuhiro Nakanishi, Yuji Hamada
1Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Tokai University Hachioji hospital, 1838 Ishikawa-machi, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0023, Japan. kk45902@tsc.u-tokai.ac.jp.
Abstract:
Brain abscesses occur in 0.3-1.3 per 100,000 worldwide each year with 0.4-0.9 in Japan alone. Most of the causes are direct infection from a nearby infectious lesion and are rarely caused by an odontogenic infection. Here, we reported a case of brain abscess suspected to be associated with odontogenic infection. The patient was a 55-year-old woman. Blurred eyes and pain in the left eye noted, for which she consulted an ophthalmologist, but her eyes were normal. She was conscious and was able to converse clearly, but she could not read the letters and had difficulty in writing at the time of admission. A brain abscess was diagnosed based on the head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinical course, and a small craniotomy abscess drainage was performed. A. cardiffensis and P. micra were detected in the abscess, suggesting the involvement of periodontal disease bacteria. After the surgery, antimicrobial treatment was performed for about 2 months. At the same time, perioperative treatment was performed. On the 70th day after the surgery, tooth extraction, which was considered as the source of infection, was performed. The patient was discharged 74 days after surgery. A good turning point was obtained without relapse of symptoms.
Insights
This case study highlights a rare brain abscess caused by odontogenic infection. Prompt diagnosis and surgical drainage, followed by targeted antibiotics and dental treatment, led to a successful patient recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dentistry
Background:
- Brain abscesses are uncommon, with most originating from nearby infections.
- Odontogenic infections are a rare cause of brain abscesses, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old woman presented with visual disturbances and neurological deficits.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) confirmed a brain abscess.
- Abscess analysis identified *A. cardiffensis* and *P. micra*, indicative of periodontal disease.
Findings:
- Surgical drainage and a two-month course of antimicrobial therapy were administered.
- The suspected odontogenic source was treated with tooth extraction.
- The patient recovered fully without symptom recurrence within 74 days.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering odontogenic sources in brain abscess diagnosis.
- Effective management requires a multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgery, infectious disease, and dentistry.
- Early intervention and source control are crucial for favorable outcomes in brain abscess patients.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Bacterial Phylum Actinobacteria
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Diversity of Protists I

