Brain abscesses caused by oral infection

Endod Dent Traumatol. 1999 Jun;15(3):95-101. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-9657.1999.tb00763.x.

Abstract

Brain abscesses are rare but can be life-threatening infections. Recent progress in microbiological classification and identification has indicated that they are sometimes caused by oral infection and dental treatment. It has been postulated that oral microorganisms may enter the cranium by several pathways: 1) by direct extension, 2) by hematogenous spread, 3) by local lymphatics, and 4) indirectly, by extraoral odontogenic infection. In the direct extension, oral infections spread along the fascial planes. Hematogenous spreading occurs along the facial, angular, ophthalmic, or other veins which lack valves, through the cavernous sinus and into the cranium. Another hematogenous pathway is through the general circulation. Oral bacteria may cause systemic infections, e.g., endocarditis, and then indirectly initiate brain abscess. Microbiota, complications, and the prevention and management of odontogenic brain abscesses are also discussed in this review.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bacteremia / complications
  • Bacteremia / etiology
  • Bacteria, Anaerobic
  • Brain Abscess / etiology*
  • Brain Abscess / microbiology
  • Brain Abscess / therapy
  • Drainage / methods
  • Focal Infection, Dental / complications*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents