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.

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.

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