[Brain Abscess]

Abstract

Brain abscesses can be caused by bacteria, mycobacteria, fungi, or parasites. The incidence of brain abscess varies from 0.4 to 0.9 cases per 100,000 population. The rate of infection increases in immunosuppressed patients. Approximately 25% of brain abscesses occur in children. Outcomes for patients with brain abscesses have improved over the past 50 years. Despite the advantages in diagnostics and treatment leading to improved outcomes in patients with brain abscess, the overall outcome and quality of life issues in patients with brain abscess remain a challenge in neurosurgery. In this article, the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic imaging, and treatment of brain abscesses are discussed.