Brain abscess physical examination
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Farwa Haideri [2]
Overview
Overview
Patients with brain abscess generally appear healthy. Most findings are neuromuscular in nature.
Physical Examination
Physical Examination
Appearance of the patient
- The patient generally appears healthy, though may show signs of fatigue, drowsiness, or have speech difficulties.[1]
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.)[1]
- This is an indication for immediate intervention.
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