Delayed brain abscess related to a retained foreign body with culture of Clostridium bifermentans

Although it is well documented that retained foreign bodies are associated with delayed intracranial abscess, there are few reports of anaerobic organism growth. A case is presented in which a left parieto-occipital abscess surrounded a metallic fragment implanted when a mortar shell exploded in Vietnam 15 years before. The diagnostic evaluation and surgical management of this case are presented.