# Cerebral Abscess Mimicking Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A rare case of a brain abscess mistaken for a stroke highlights the importance of careful diagnosis to avoid treatment delays.

## Contribution

This case report adds to the understanding of hemorrhagic pyogenic cerebral abscesses and their potential to mimic stroke.

## Key findings

- A 46-year-old female presented with neurological deficits initially suspected as a stroke.
- Further testing revealed a hemorrhagic pyogenic brain abscess.
- Conservative treatment led to successful recovery with minimal neurological deficits.

## Abstract

Hemorrhagic pyogenic cerebral abscesses are a rare clinical entity that can present diagnostic challenges and lead to treatment delays. We report a case of a 46-year-old female who initially presented with a sudden onset of focal neurological deficits, raising a suspicion of a cerebrovascular etiology. Further diagnostic workup revealed a hemorrhagic pyogenic brain abscess. The patient was managed successfully with a conservative approach, receiving medical treatment after declining surgical intervention, and was discharged with only minimal neurological residuals. Although hemorrhagic pyogenic brain abscesses are uncommon, maintaining a high index of suspicion, supported by comprehensive history taking and targeted diagnostic testing, is imperative for early detection and effective management to mitigate potential morbidity and mortality.