J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  2013 Aug;54(2):148-150. 10.3340/jkns.2013.54.2.148.

Intracranial Calcification Caused by a Brain Abscess : A Rare Cause of Intracranial Calcification

• Kim HS
• Kim DM
• Ju CI
• Kim SW

• KMID: 1814256
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3340/jkns.2013.54.2.148

Abstract

Intracranial calcifications are relatively common computed tomographic findings in the field of neurosurgery, and cysticercosis, tuberculosis, HIV, and cryptococcus are acquired intracranial infections typically associated with calcifications. However, intracranial calcification caused by a bacterial brain abscess is rare. Here, we present a rare case of intracranial calcification caused by a bacterial brain abscess, from which staphylococcus hominis was isolated. To the best of our knowledge, no previous report has been published on intracranial calcification caused by bacterial brain abscess after decompressive craniectomy for traumatic brain injury. In this article, the pathophysiological mechanism of this uncommon entity is discussed and relevant literature reviewed.

Keyword

Brain abscess; Calcification

MeSH Terms

Brain
Brain Abscess
Brain Injuries
Cryptococcus
Cysticercosis
Decompressive Craniectomy
HIV
Neurosurgery
Staphylococcus hominis
Tuberculosis

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Postoperative computed tomography scan shows successful removal of subdural hematoma after decompressive craniectomy.

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  Fig. 2 Contrast enchanced CT scan taken 3 weeks later reveals appearance of an intracerebral abscess with a thin walled cavity.

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  Fig. 3 Gadolinium enhanced magnetic resonance image and contrast enhanced CT taken 35 days later show an increase in both the size and extent of the brain abscess.

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  Fig. 4 After navigation-guided drainage of the abscess, CT scan performed 5 months after admission show calcified brain abscess.

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  Fig. 5 Axial and coronal CT scans taken 2 years after admission show remained calcified brain abscess.

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