Title | Pyogenic brain abscess associated with an incidental pulmonary arteriovenous malformation |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2022 |
Authors | Ryan KM, Siegler E |
Journal | BMJ Case Rep |
Volume | 15 |
Issue | 11 |
Date Published | 2022 Nov 16 |
ISSN | 1757-790X |
Abstract | Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are rare and often asymptomatic vascular anomalies that can be associated with serious neurological consequences due to right-to-left shunting. We report a case of a woman in her 80s without substantial medical history who presented with a headache, weakness and personality changes, and was found to have a pyogenic brain abscess requiring emergent neurosurgical evacuation. The abscess grew oral flora, suspected to have reached the brain via an incidentally discovered PAVM. With drainage and antibiotics, the patient achieved a full recovery and the PAVM was embolised. To our knowledge, this is the oldest presentation of a PAVM-associated brain abscess in the published literature. Older patients may present without the typical signs and symptoms of a given illness, which complicates accurate diagnosis and treatment. Primary care physicians can help facilitate timely care and positive clinical outcomes. |
DOI | 10.1136/bcr-2022-252794 |
Alternate Journal | BMJ Case Rep |
PubMed ID | 36384884 |