Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026
06:59
Intrathecal Application of a Fluorescent Dye for the Identification of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks in Cochlear Malformation
Published on: February 29, 2020
Beta-2-transferrin to detect cerebrospinal fluid pleural effusion: a case report
1Division of Pediatric Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto Toronto Canada.
Journal of Medical Case Reports
|October 16, 2009
Summary
Pleural effusion after ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement is rare. Beta-2-transferrin testing in pleural fluid can diagnose cerebrospinal fluid hydrothorax, a complication of shunts.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
- Thoracic Medicine
Background:
- Ventriculoperitoneal shunts are used to treat hydrocephalus.
- Complications include rare but serious pleural effusions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of cerebrospinal fluid hydrothorax secondary to ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertion.
- To highlight a diagnostic method for this rare complication.
Main Methods:
- A case study of a 14-month-old boy with hydrocephalus and shunt insertion.
- Diagnostic workup included imaging and pleural fluid analysis for beta-2-transferrin.
- Treatment involved externalization of the shunt.
Main Results:
- The patient developed respiratory distress due to large pleural effusion and ascites.
- Beta-2-transferrin electrophoresis confirmed cerebrospinal fluid leak into the pleural space.
- Externalization of the shunt led to resolution of effusion and ascites.
Conclusions:
- Beta-2-transferrin testing is a valuable diagnostic tool for cerebrospinal fluid hydrothorax.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes in shunt complications.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management
Pleural Effusion Overview
A pleural effusion is the abnormal collection of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura layers of tissue that form the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It can occur independently or due to surrounding parenchymal diseases, such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Manifestations:
A pleural effusion is the abnormal collection of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura layers of tissue that form the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It can occur independently or due to surrounding parenchymal diseases, such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Manifestations:
01:25Pleural Effusion I: Introduction
Pleural effusion is an abnormal fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity, a narrow space between the lungs and the chest wall. It is not a disease per se but rather a symptom or indication of an underlying disease. In normal circumstances, this space contains a small amount of fluid (5 to 15 mL), a lubricant facilitating the non-frictional movement of the pleural surfaces.
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's criteria,...
There are two main types of pleural effusion: transudative and exudative. They are differentiated using Light's criteria,...
01:26Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Thoracentesis(Thoracocentesis), commonly known as pleural tap, is a medical procedure where a 22 gauge needle is inserted into the pleural space, the area between the lung and chest wall. This procedure is commonly performed to diagnose or treat various respiratory disorders.
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...