A Case Report : Massive Subdural Empyema Following Ventriculo-Peritoneal Shunt Placement in Child Patient

Abstract

Background: Subdural empyema is a critical neurosurgical condition that arise from neurosurgical procedures, trauma, meningitis, sinusitis, or otogenic infection. Reported mortality rates vary from 4.4% to 24%. Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement is one of the most common procedures and reported rates for shunt infections are relatively high. However, their association with subdural empyema is rare.

Case Report: One years old boy who presented with fever, lethargy, and inability to walk was admitted to the hospital. He was undergone Vp-shunt 1 month ago because of hydrocephalus. At the time of admission, the child was alert, had a moderate right hemiparesis, and a macrocephalic appearance. An emergency CT scan showed well-circumscribed subdural empyema.

Discussion: A craniotomy was performed, then thick fibrous capsule underlying the dura mater was encountered, finally the pus was totally removed. Postoperatively, he was fully alert with a marked motoric improvement. Diplococus gram positive was found. The patient was given appropriate antibiotic treatment for 3 weeks periode.

Conclusion: Subdural empyema is an unusual complication of a VP-shunt. Although rare in children, it is still a neurosurgical problem. The combination of medication and surgery treatment in Subdural empyema resulted in a good response.