Maximal medical therapy in extensive subdural empyema of the brain and spinal cord

Abstract

Severe subdural empyema (SDE) involving both the brain and spinal cord can be a life-threatening condition if not treated properly. We describe a malnourished patient with extensive spinal and intracranial SDE, whose poor prognosis prompted palliative care consultation. Surgical options were not possible. However, following maximal medical therapy, the patient's condition resolved completely in 1 year. This case highlights the important relationship between neurocritical care medical management and infection when surgical options are not possible.