epidural abscess, a disorder characterized by inflammation and a collection of pus between the dura mater of the brain and skull, or between the dura mater of the spinal cord and the vertebral canal. It is called an intracranial epidural abscess if the infection is inside the skull. The infection is usually caused by a bacterium such as Staphylococcus, but it can also be secondary to a fungal or viral infection, which can occur secondary to a chronic ear or sinus infection, a penetrating head injury, or mastoiditis. Fever, headache, and neurological symptoms are common. Surgery to remove the purulent material and treatment with antibiotics are the usual treatments.
