Brain abscess caused by Streptococcus anginosus group: Three case reports

Abstract

BACKGROUND This case series investigated the clinical manifestations, diagnoses, and treatment of cerebral abscesses caused by Streptococcus anginosus . We retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics and outcomes of three cases of cerebral abscesses caused by Streptococcus anginosus and conducted a comprehensive review of relevant literature. CASE SUMMARY Case 1 presented with a history of left otitis media and exhibited high fever, confusion, and vomiting as primary symptoms. Postoperative pus culture indicated a brain abscess caused by Streptococcus constellatus infection. Case 2 experienced dizziness for two days as the primary symptom. Postoperative pus culture suggested an intermediate streptococcal brain abscess. Case 3: Enhanced head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion-weighted imaging revealed occupancy of the left temporal lobe, initially suspected to be a metastatic tumor. However, a postoperative pus culture confirmed the presence of a brain abscess caused by Streptococcus anginosus infection. The three cases presented in this case series were all patients with community-acquired brain abscesses resulting from angina caused by Streptococcus group infection. All three patients demonstrated sensitivity to penicillin, ceftriaxone, vancomycin, linezolid, chloramphenicol, and levofloxacin. Successful treatment was achieved through stereotaxic puncture, drainage, and ceftriaxone administration with a six -week course of antibiotics. CONCLUSION Preoperative enhanced head MRI plays a critical role in distinguishing brain tumors from abscesses. Selecting the correct early diagnostic methods for brain abscesses and providing timely intervention are very important. This case series was in accordance with the CARE guidelines.