The dura surrounds the brain and spinal cord. At times, infections occur in the skull, the sinuses or the middle ear. As these infections progress they may spread into the space between the bony skull and sinuses and the dura. These infections may also spread into the adjacent brain, where meningitis, subdural empyema, or brain abscess can occur. Rarely, blood borne bacteria can be deposited into the epidural space of the brain where an abscess can arise.
Causes of Epidural Abscess Of The Brain
The most common causes for these infections is spread of infections from sinusitis and ear infections. Infections can spread by means of osteomyelitis or through vascular passages that communicate between the epidural space of the brain the sinuses or middle ear.
Signs and Symptoms of Epidural Abscess Of The Brain
Symptoms often commonly include infections within the sinuses or middle ear. In these cases pain or headaches are located near the involved structure. There may be redness or tenderness over the ear or sinus. Fever occurs and a stiff neck may develop due to parameningeal reaction, where white cells are increased in the spinal fluid. Eventually nausea, vomiting, weakness, numbness, stiff neck, or seizures may occur if the infection spreads into the brain or spinal fluid surrounding the brain.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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