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[Actinomycotic abscess of the cerebellum: a case report]
M H Tsubouchi1, W O Arruda, A A Pedrozo
1Unidade de Ciências Neurologicas, Curitiba, Brasil.
Abstract:
A 38 year-old man presented fever and a clinical picture of intracranial hypertension and ataxic syndrome. A CT-scan disclosed an expanding lesion of the cerebellum. Surgical excision of the lesion was performed and pathological examination made the diagnosis of an actinomycotic abscess. The probable primary source of infection were the lungs and/or oral cavity. The postoperative course was uneventful, with complete recovery after a long period of treatment with penicillin (IV and PO). The authors review some aspects about central nervous system involvement in actinomycosis.
Insights
A cerebellar actinomycotic abscess, a rare infection, was surgically removed from a 38-year-old man. Long-term penicillin treatment led to complete recovery, highlighting successful management of central nervous system actinomycosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Actinomycosis is a rare bacterial infection that can affect various parts of the body.
- Central nervous system (CNS) involvement in actinomycosis is uncommon but can lead to severe neurological deficits.
Observation:
- A 38-year-old male presented with fever, intracranial hypertension, and ataxic syndrome.
- CT scan revealed an expanding cerebellar lesion, suggestive of a tumor or abscess.
- Surgical excision was performed, and pathological examination confirmed an actinomycotic abscess.
Findings:
- The likely primary source of infection was the lungs and/or oral cavity.
- The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative recovery.
- Complete recovery was achieved after prolonged intravenous and oral penicillin therapy.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering actinomycosis in the differential diagnosis of cerebellar lesions.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment, such as penicillin, are crucial for successful outcomes in CNS actinomycosis.
- Surgical intervention may be necessary for large or symptomatic lesions.