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Updated: Jun 1, 2026
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Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing of Cerebrospinal Fluid for the Detection of Central Nervous System Pathogens
Published on: April 17, 2026
Does CSF composition predict shunt malfunction in tuberculous meningitis?
S Ambekar1, S Dwarakanath, B A Chandramouli
1Department of Neurosurgery, National Institute of Mental Health And Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore
The Indian Journal of Tuberculosis
|June 8, 2011
Summary
Elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein levels significantly increase the risk of shunt malfunction in tuberculous meningitis (TBM) patients. Monitoring high-protein CSF is crucial for preventing complications in TBM hydrocephalus management.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Hydrocephalus secondary to tuberculous meningitis (TBM) presents significant treatment challenges, particularly in developing nations.
- Ventriculo-peritoneal shunts in TBM patients experience higher complication rates compared to other causes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) composition and shunt malfunction in TBM patients.
- To identify specific CSF markers predictive of shunt failure.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study analyzing CSF composition.
- 53 TBM patients with shunt malfunction were compared against 137 matched controls.
Main Results:
- Significantly higher CSF protein concentrations were observed in patients with shunt malfunction.
- CSF cellularity and glucose levels did not predict shunt malfunction.
- A CSF protein concentration >200 mg/dL correlated with a fourfold increased risk of shunt malfunction.
Conclusions:
- Elevated CSF protein concentration (>200 mg/dL) is a significant risk factor for shunt malfunction in TBM.
- Close patient follow-up is recommended for those with high CSF protein levels.
- CSF protein levels are a key indicator for shunt complication risk in TBM hydrocephalus.
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