Health's Book

Definition

A brain abscess is a collection of immune cells, pus, and other material in the brain, usually from a bacterial or fungal infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms may develop slowly, over a period of 2 weeks, or they may develop suddenly. They may include:

* Aching of neck, shoulders, or back
* Changes in mental status
o Confusion
o Decreasing responsiveness
o Drowsiness
o Eventual coma
o Inattention
o Irritability
o Slow thought processes
* Decreased movement
* Decreased sensation
* Decreased speech (aphasia)
* Fever and chills
* Headache
* Language difficulties
* Loss of coordination
* Loss of muscle function
* Seizures
* Stiff neck, shoulders, or back
* Vision changes
* Vomiting
* Weakness