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Published on: October 14, 2022
Visual field constriction in children with shunt-treated hydrocephalus
Diana Rudolph1, Ina Sterker, Gerd Graefe
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Leipzig, Germany.
Journal of Neurosurgery. Pediatrics
|November 3, 2010
Summary
Children with shunt-treated hydrocephalus often experience ophthalmological abnormalities, particularly visual field deficits. Regular visual field examinations are crucial for monitoring these patients, especially those with postmeningitic hydrocephalus.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Hydrocephalus is frequently associated with various ophthalmological abnormalities.
- Visual field deficits in children with hydrocephalus require further investigation and standardized diagnostic approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of visual field deficits in children with shunt-treated hydrocephalus.
- To identify factors associated with visual field abnormalities in this pediatric population.
Main Methods:
- Ophthalmological examinations including visual acuity, refraction, strabismus assessment, and Goldmann visual field testing were performed.
- Patients with shunt-treated hydrocephalus (over 6 years) were assessed.
- Comparison of children with and without visual field defects based on age, hydrocephalus etiology, and fronto-occipital horn ratio from CT/MR imaging.
Main Results:
- 56 children were evaluated; 29 had strabismus, 10 nystagmus, and 13 optic nerve atrophy.
- Visual field deficits were identified in 24 of 42 evaluable children, often presenting as concentric constriction.
- Visual field defects correlated with older age, postmeningitic hydrocephalus, and higher fronto-occipital horn ratio.
Conclusions:
- Children with shunt-treated hydrocephalus have an increased risk of ophthalmological abnormalities, including visual field deficits.
- Visual field examination is recommended for comprehensive ophthalmological monitoring in hydrocephalus patients, particularly those with large ventricles.
- Intensified ophthalmological monitoring is advised for children with postmeningitic hydrocephalus.
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