Brain abscess physical examination

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Farwa Haideri [2]

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Overview

Patients with brain abscess generally appear healthy. Most findings are neuromuscular in nature.

Physical Examination

Appearance of the patient

• The patient generally appears healthy, though may show signs of fatigue, drowsiness, or have speech difficulties.

Vital signs

• Dysarthria
• Fevers
• Headache
  • Most common complaint, seen in greater than 75% of patients

Neck

• Stiffness in neck (in occasional cases)

Neuromuscular

• Altered mental status
• Hemiparesis
  • Approximately 30-50% of patients will have focal neurological deficits
• Eventual coma
• Aphasia
• Ataxia
• Signs of increased ICP (N/V, lethargy etc.)
  • This is an indication for immediate intervention.