Computed tomography (CT) scans of 9 surgically proved cases of cerebral abscess [in man] were reviewed. The CT characteristics were studied, as were the postoperative scans. Also assessed were the contributions to the diagnosis of the clinical features, plain radiographic examinations, radionuclide imaging and angiography. The accuracy and information content of CT scans of cerebral abscesses should lead to a significant reduction in morbidity and mortality.