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Brain Abscess
A brain abscess is a collection of pus in the brain caused by infection. It is uncommon but serious, and needs urgent treatment with antibiotics and often surgery to drain it.
Causes & risk factors
- Spread of infection from the ears, sinuses or teeth
- Spread through the blood from infection elsewhere
- After head injury or brain surgery
- Weakened immune system
- Heart conditions that let infection spread
Common symptoms
- Persistent, worsening headache
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Seizures
- Weakness or speech problems
Tests & diagnosis
- MRI brain
- CT scan
- Blood count
- CRP (inflammation)
- Blood cultures
Treatment & management
- Urgent hospital admission
- A prolonged course of antibiotics
- Surgery to drain the abscess in many cases
- Treating the source of infection
- Controlling seizures and brain swelling
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe headache with fever, drowsiness, confusion or seizures — call your local emergency number now
- New weakness or speech problems with a headache — call your local emergency number now
- A worsening headache during or after an ear, sinus or dental infection
- Any rapidly progressing neurological symptoms
Frequently asked questions
How does a brain abscess form?
Infection can spread to the brain from nearby areas like the ears, sinuses or teeth, or through the bloodstream from elsewhere. Pus then collects and causes pressure and swelling.
Is a brain abscess treatable?
Yes, but it is a serious condition needing urgent hospital care with antibiotics and often surgical drainage. Early treatment greatly improves the outcome.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.