Gram – Brain abscess: 6-10/oif (3+) neutrophils, 11-50/oif (3+) gram positive cocci (Streptococcus anginosus) – Shipped November 02, 2020
HISTORY
A simulated brain abscess sample collected from a 42-year-old male with headache was sent to category A and C1 laboratories. Participants were expected to report neutrophils and gram positive cocci.
MAIN EDUCATIONAL POINTS from G203
- Brain abscesses are often purulent and should have high numbers of neutrophils. Lack of neutrophils may represent sampling or laboratory error, or an incorrect diagnosis.
- Many pathogens may be involved in brain abscesses, and these may be polymicrobial. Streptococcus anginosus is a common pathogen in such infections
