These reports reflect the importance of the need for infection control measures. The clinical course of patients with brain abscess varies dramatically. The prominent symptoms are secondary to mass effect , not infection. Headache is the most common symptom and may be hemicranial or generalized. Varying degrees of altered mental status are present in the majority of patients.
Intrasellar abscesses simulate pituitary tumours.
Most laboratory tests are not diagnostic for brain abscess. Not only are cerebrospinal fluid findings non-specific, but patients may herniate after the procedure. Similar results have been reported in other studies. Imaging studies are most useful in making a diagnosis of brain abscess. It can detect oedema, hydrocephalus, shift, or imminent ventricular rupture.