Brain abscesses in Iraq during a 10 years period: Part 11. Diagnostic investigations, management -and outcome

ABSTRACT

This study comprises two parts, the first one dealt with epidemiology etiology and clinical picture of brain abscess. This part describes diagnostic investigation management and final outcome of brain abscess during a 10 years period. The case records of patients with brain abscess admitted to the neurosur, specialties hospital in Baghdad over a 10 years period extending from 1 "Jan. 1993 to 31 " Dec. 2002, inclusive were reviewed. Data obtained included demographic and clinical data. Results of peripheral leukocytes count, ESR and CSF were supportive in 16.7%, 67.9% 78% of cases in which tests were applied, respectively. CT scan was suggestive in 100% of cases. Use of antibiotic therapy as a preliminary treatment line was adopted in 37.8% cases, while surgery as a preliminary line of treatment was adopted in 62.3% of cases. Out 68 cases, complete resolution was encountered in 70.6% ol'cases, sequlae in 11.8% and death in 17.9%. Bad neurological 'status on admission was the most encountered contributing factor for death. Metastasis from a remote infection process is a risky aetiology contributing to bad prognosis. The use Of C I Scan represents all important change in the diagnostic regimen brain abscess in the last 10-15 years