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Published on: March 28, 2025
Pediatric neurobrucellosis associated with hydrocephalus
Murat Altas1, Omer Evirgen, Vefik Arica
1Departments of Neurosurgery, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey.
Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences
|May 12, 2011
Summary
Neurobrucellosis, a rare complication of brucellosis, can cause serious neurological issues like hydrocephalus. This case highlights successful treatment with external ventricular drainage and antibiotics, avoiding permanent shunts.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection prevalent in developing nations, potentially affecting multiple organ systems.
- Neurobrucellosis, a rare central nervous system complication, most commonly presents as meningitis or meningoencephalitis.
- Communicating hydrocephalus is an infrequent but serious manifestation of neurobrucellosis.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old girl presented with symptoms including fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
- Blood and cerebrospinal fluid cultures confirmed Brucella infection.
- Cranial computed tomography revealed communicating hydrocephalus secondary to neurobrucellosis.
Findings:
- The patient received successful treatment comprising external ventricular drainage and triple antibiotic therapy.
- The hydrocephalus resolved without the need for a permanent ventriculo-peritoneal shunt.
- This case underscores the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management of neurobrucellosis.
Implications:
- Effective management of neurobrucellosis, including hydrocephalus, is achievable with timely intervention.
- Minimally invasive procedures like external ventricular drainage can be effective in managing complications.
- Further research into neurobrucellosis pathogenesis and treatment strategies is warranted.
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