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Massive ascites as unique sign of shunt infection by Propionibacterium acnes

Nicola Montano1, Carmelo Sturiale, Giovanna Paternoster

  • 1Institute of Neurosurgery, Catholic University, Rome. nicolamontanomd@yahoo.it

British Journal of Neurosurgery
|February 4, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Propionibacterium acnes shunt infections typically present with mild symptoms. This case highlights massive ascites as a unique sign of cerebrospinal fluid infection in a patient with P. acnes shunt infection.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurosurgery

Background:

  • Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a known pathogen implicated in shunt infections.
  • Shunt infections often manifest with subtle or mild clinical signs.

Observation:

  • A case of P. acnes shunt infection is presented.
  • The infection uniquely manifested with massive ascites, mimicking a sign of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) infection.

Findings:

  • The patient experienced massive ascites as the sole indicator of CSF infection.
  • Treatment involved shunt removal, antibiotic therapy, and ascites drainage.

Implications:

  • This case expands the spectrum of clinical presentations for P. acnes shunt infections.
  • Highlights the importance of considering atypical presentations, such as massive ascites, in shunt infections.
  • Suggests prompt intervention including surgical removal, antibiotics, and ascites management leads to rapid recovery.

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