Otogenic Brain Abscess

Otogenic brain abscess is a brain abscess (commonly in the temporal lobe or cerebellum) resulting from spread of infection from otitis media or mastoiditis. Clinical: fever, headache, nausea/vomiting, focal neurologic deficits, and ear discharge. It is more common in children and chronic ear disease. Diagnosis: CT/MRI. Treatment: IV antibiotics plus neurosurgical drainage/aspiration, and ENT source control (mastoidectomy).

Common Symptoms

Fever; headache; vomiting; focal neurologic deficits; ear pain/discharge; history of otitis media/mastoiditis

Causes and Pathogenesis

Infection from otitis/mastoiditis spreads by bone erosion or thrombophlebitis to form an intraparenchymal abscess, usually temporal or cerebellar.

Treatment

IV antibiotics; neurosurgical drainage/aspiration; ENT source control (mastoidectomy); manage raised ICP

Preventive Measures

Treat otitis media promptly; ENT follow-up for chronic ear disease.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the ENT department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.