Brain abscess of a very elderly patient likely caused by maxillary osteomyelitis from odontogenic infection: A case report

Abstract The typical origins of brain abscesses are cranial trauma or surgery, or infections secondary to a septic focus elsewhere, but also in rare cases, odontogenic contagion. In this report, we describe a case of a brain abscess subsequent to maxillary osteomyelitis from odontogenic infection. On examination for maxillary osteomyelitis of an 87-year-old woman, a brain abscess was discovered by chance. Surgery for osteomyelitis and intravenous antibiotics for over 2 months improved her symptoms and she was discharged. Over two years have passed since her discharge, and her whole body remains in good condition with no recurrence. Physicians should be aware of the potential complication of brain abscess when treating patients for dental infections.