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Intraventricular haemorrhage complicating a brain abscess
1Section of Neurology, National Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain.
Abstract:
Intraventricular haemorrhage occurred in a patient with a parietal rim-enhancing mass on computed tomographic scan. At operation a brain abscess was identified and removed. Peptostreptococcus and fusobacterium were isolated, possibly of dental origin. The possible sources of this intracranial bleeding are discussed. A neoplasm should not always be considered in the case of a cerebral ring-enhancing mass complicated with intracranial bleeding; in selected cases, brain abscess should be excluded too.
Insights
A brain abscess, not a tumor, caused intraventricular hemorrhage in a patient with a ring-enhancing brain mass. Prompt diagnosis and surgical removal of the abscess are crucial for successful treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cerebral ring-enhancing lesions on computed tomography (CT) scans are often associated with neoplasms.
- Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a serious complication that can arise from various intracranial pathologies.
Observation:
- A patient presented with IVH and a parietal rim-enhancing mass identified on CT scan.
- Surgical exploration revealed a brain abscess, not a tumor, as the underlying cause.
Findings:
- The brain abscess was successfully removed.
- Bacterial cultures isolated Peptostreptococcus and Fusobacterium, suggesting a possible dental origin.
- The case highlights an unusual presentation of a brain abscess complicated by IVH.
Implications:
- Cerebral ring-enhancing masses with intracranial bleeding require a differential diagnosis that includes brain abscess, not solely neoplasms.
- Early identification and management of brain abscesses are critical to prevent severe neurological complications like IVH.
- This case underscores the importance of considering infectious etiologies in neuroimaging findings that mimic tumors.