Subdural empyema caused by Peptostreptococcus sp.: a complication of acute pharyngitis

Subdural Empyema (ESD) is the collection of purulent fluid that develops between the exterior “dura mater” layer and the middle “arachnoid mater” layer that covers the brain. ESD can be caused by a primary infection located in the paranasal sinuses. In many aerobic and/or anaerobic bacterial cases, hearing or traumatic processes serve as the causative agent. This report presents pharyngitis in a young girl which later developed into a subdural empyema caused by the bacteria Peptostreptococcus sp. The report emphasizes the correct clinical valuation of pharyngitis as a risk factor for developing subdural empyema in children.