Oral wooden stick injury complicated by meningitis and brain abscess

Chang Gung Med J. 2002 Apr;25(4):266-70.

Abstract

Meningitis is rarely seen following oral injury. We describe a 3-year-old boy developing meningitis and brain abscess following a penetrating oral wooden stick injury. There was no cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea noted. A cerebrospinal fluid culture yielded viridans streptococcus. Brain magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography revealed a multiloculated ring-enhancing mass. This patient underwent surgical drainage and completed 8-week antibiotic therapy. The patient demonstrated a late and dismal complication of a penetrating oral injury. At 2-year follow-up the patient was in good condition. A penetrating oral wooden stick inury should be regarded as potentially serious.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Brain Abscess / etiology*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Meningitis / etiology*
  • Mouth / injuries*
  • Wounds, Penetrating / complications*