Comparison of the Cerebral Angiogram and the Brain Radionuclide Image in Brain Abscess

Abstract

To demonstrate the complementary nature of cerebral angiography and radionuclide imaging, a retrospective study was made of 20 cases of proved brain abscess. The nuclide study is more sensitive; the first examination following the onset of symptoms was positive in every case. While less sensitive, the angiogram has the advantage of specificity. The ring-like stain, the sudden appearance of a mass, and the mass effect associated with a small arterial branch occlusion are all strongly suggestive of abscess.