A rare case of brain abscess following professional dental cleaning
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25753/BirthGrowthMJ.v33.i4.31033Keywords:
adolescent, brain abscess, headache, streptococcal infection, toothAbstract
Brain abscess is a rare infection of the central nervous system in childhood. The clinical presentation is usually nonspecific, making its diagnosis challenging. The etiology is varied. Less invasive oral procedures are a rare potential cause of hematogenous dissemination of microorganisms to the brain.
Herein is presented the case of an adolescent who presented to the Emergency Department with complaints of headache three weeks after a professional dental cleaning. A brain abscess was diagnosed and Streptococcus viridans, usually associated with oral mucosal infections, was isolated. The boy was successfully treated with needle aspiration of the abscess and a six-week course of antibiotic therapy.
This case highlights the importance of improving knowledge of this entity to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
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