Record review of patients with Brain Abscess and Empyema at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital.

Abstract

Studies on brain abscess (BA) and Empyema are not routinely focused on the role of occupational therapy (OT) with these patients. There is a paucity of literature on deficits resulting from BA and Empyema other than hemiplegia. This study used a retrospective record review to determine the relationship between BA, Empyema, and resultant physical and psychosocial dysfunction. Patients with BA generally had more significant deficits than those with Empyema for both physical and psychosocial performance components. Hemiplegia was the most common physical deficit found with the most common psychosocial deficit being body concept. Remediation of these deficits falls within the scope of OT which is recommended for this patient population.