Search

We present a case of recurrent subdural post-surgical empyema by Proprionibacterium acnes after a first drained empyema in which no microbiological diagnosis was reached. P. acnes is a gram-positive anaerobic organism which is part of the saprophytic flora of the skin and others parts of the body. However, it can cause infections, as in the central nervous system, especially post-surgical infections in which can be the second more frequent organism after Staphylococcus aureus. P. acnes grows slowly and shows better growth in liquid anaerobic media. It is usually resistant to metronidazol and sensitive to penicillin. In postoperative central nervous system infections we must take into account the possibility of this organism, process the sample properly and keep touch with the Microbiology Department.

Subdural empyema is a rare complication of sinusitis in children. Its clinical presentation represents a neurosurgical emergency and as a scarcely recognized entity a delayed diagnosis rapidly increases its fatal prognosis. We report the clinical and radiological course of an adolescent with a subdural empyema secondary to sinusitis. Clinical and radiological features, laboratory findings and outcome of this condition are discussed based in a review of previously reported cases.

We present a case of frontal sinusitis complicated with a subdural empyema, in which the identified microorganism was Gemella morbillorum, a frequent host of the aerodigestive tract and occasionally related to infections. The problem was resolved successfully using endoscopic surgery and an external approach of the sinus. Afterwards it was completed with a subdural drainage through craniotomy. Subdural empyema is a rare complication of sinusitis although very severe. We want to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis of intracranial complications, the need of a detailed microbiology test the method used to obtain samples, and the convenience of a combined approach by the otolaryngologists and the neurosurgeons for its complete drainage.

Spinal subdural empyema (SE) is a rare condition. We describe a young patient with a torathic SE after lumbar epidural anaesthesia. SE was distant from the region of manipulation. Spinal magnetic resonance was the most useful procedure for diagnosis and follow-up. Treatment with intravenous antibiotics and drainage was not enough, and she needed complete surgical excision of the lesion.