Brain abscess

A brain abscess is a pocket of infection that forms in the brain. Depending on its size and location, a brain abscess may cause headaches, personality changes, one-sided weakness, fever and chills, nausea and vomiting, and seizures.

Brain abscesses are not common. They may be caused by:

The spread of infection from somewhere else in the head, such as the gums (gingivitis), mouth, nose, ear, or sinus.
A deep head wound that penetrates the brain.
Infection that has traveled through the bloodstream from somewhere else in the body.

Treatment includes medicine to fight the infection and decrease swelling in the brain. In some cases a brain abscess requires surgical drainage.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.