LAUSR

Subdural empyema is considered a neurosurgical emergency and, if found on neuroimaging, should prompt craniotomy for evacuation followed by broad spectrum antibiotics. In the setting of a patient with severe parenchymal swelling, a craniectomy may be indicated, as well as other modalities to lower intracranial pressure. Clinical care and decision making occurs with a multidisciplinary team of pediatric intensivists, infectious disease specialists, otolaryngologists, and neurosurgeons. Detection of recurrent subdural empyema is critical to prevent further morbidity and mortality, and surveillance of fever, neurologic examination, and follow-up imaging is critical. Timely surgical treatment of these infections can lead to good clinical outcomes.