Rapidly progressing interhemispheric subdural empyema showing a three-fold increase in size within 12 hours: Case report

BACKGROUND: Subdural empyema is a rare form of intracranial infection. It is described as accumulation of purulent infective material between the inner layer of dura mater and outer layer of arachnoid membrane. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 17-year-old girl was admitted to the emergency department with acute left hemiplegia and was diagnosed with interhemispheric subdural empyema that showed a three-fold increase in size within 12 hours. Complete recovery was achieved with emergency surgical evacuation and additional 3 weeks of antibiotic treatment. CONCLUSION: Subdural empyema should be diagnosed and managed early in time since it may progress very rapidly and can cause high morbidity and mortality. Complete recovery can be achieved if it is diagnosed early and treated in time.