From Lungs to Brain: An Uncommon Brain Abscess Following Pneumonia

Abstract

A 37-year-old male with no significant medical history presented to the hospital following a fall into a pit containing animal feces, resulting in aspiration pneumonia. He was intubated and treated with antibiotics, and after 15 days of hospitalization, he was discharged in stable condition. Four days later, he returned with scrotal pain and swelling, diagnosed as epididymitis, and successfully treated with ceftriaxone. On September 1st, he re-presented with headache, dizziness, and malaise, and imaging revealed a brain abscess. Despite undergoing stereotactic surgery, the patient experienced persistent neurological symptoms, including fluctuating consciousness, nausea, and vomiting. He subsequently developed hydrocephalus, necessitating the placement of an external ventricular drain and transfer to the ICU. The patient was treated with antifungal and antibiotic therapies, but his clinical condition deteriorated. Despite intensive care, he succumbed to his illness after 19 days in the ICU.