When should I consider referring a patient with a suspected brain abscess to a specialist?

Consider referring a patient with a suspected brain abscess to a specialist urgently if there are signs of raised intracranial pressure or neurological deterioration. This includes symptoms such as altered consciousness, focal neurological deficits, seizures, or signs of increased intracranial pressure. Referral should be made to a specialist neurosurgical or infectious disease team for further assessment and management, including imaging and possible surgical intervention.

Although the provided guidelines do not explicitly detail brain abscess referral criteria, the principles for serious intracranial infections and complications such as central nervous system tuberculosis suggest referral when there is evidence of raised intracranial pressure or neurological compromise. Early specialist involvement is critical to prevent morbidity and mortality.