Prognosis

Outcome

The outcome for patients with brain abscess has improved over the years. Overall mortality is <13%, with permanent hemiparesis and long-term seizures both under 50%.[55] The major prognostic factor is the patient's neurological status upon presentation. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment correlates with improved outcome.[56][57] Other factors associated with poor outcome include intraventricular rupture, use of chronic corticosteroids, the presence of cyanotic heart disease, an immunocompromised state, and the identification of Nocardia asteroides or Naegleria fowleri as the aetiological agent.[58][59][60][61] A high risk of reduced cognitive performance has been shown in children with cyanotic heart disease and in neonates with brain abscess.[1]

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