Subdural empyema
From IDWiki
Background
- Infection of subdural space, between the arachnoid and dura mater
- Often a complication of sinusitis, or less commonly from otitis media, meningitis, or neurosurgery
Clinical Manifestations
- Fever, headache, focal neurologic deficits, and papilledema
- May have periorbital edema and subgaleal abscess
- Can cause rapid clinical deterioration due to mass effect on brain
Management
- Surgical drainage
- Intravenous antibiotics
- Duration 6 weeks is reasonable if adequate drainage, 6-8 weeks otherwise, maybe longer
