Socio-demographic Characteristics of Patients with Intracranial Infection

Abstract

Introduction: Intracranial infections involve pathogens invading the brain or surrounding tissues, causing conditions like meningitis and brain abscesses. Swift diagnosis and treatment are vital due to risks like neurological deficits, seizures, and fatality. Symptoms encompass severe headaches, fever, altered mental state, and neurological issues. Timely medical action, often using antibiotics or antivirals, is crucial to alleviate intracranial infection's potentially severe outcomes. Aim of the study: This study aimed to assess the socio-demographic characteristics of patients with intracranial infection. Methods & Materials: Conducted in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from March to September 2006, this observational study took place at BSMMU and Dhaka Medical College Hospital's CT sections. It involved 50 patients suspected of intracranial infections or needing complication evaluation via spiral CT. Random sampling was employed, recording demographic and clinical data for subsequent MS Office analysis. Results: The male-female ratio of the participants was 2:1. Ages ranged from 1 to 69, with most CT patients aged 31 to 50. Over 20% were students, employed, or housewives. Common symptoms included fever (24%), headache (20%), and vomiting (16%), while CT revealed abnormal meningeal enhancement (11.5%), cerebral edema (7.5%), and ventricular dilatation (8.5%). Conclusion: Intracranial infection tends to affect younger males. Occupational diversity within the study population suggests that occupation might not pose a significant risk factor for such infections. Common features of these cases include fever, headache, vomiting, abnormal meningeal enhancement, cerebral edema, and ventricular dilatation.