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A child with suprasellar mass and ascites
1Department of Endocrinology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
BMJ Case Reports
|July 14, 2012
Summary
A child with craniopharyngioma developed shunt ascites, a rare complication of cerebrospinal fluid diversion. Ventriculo-atrial shunting successfully resolved the ascites, improving the patient's condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Craniopharyngioma is a common pediatric brain tumor.
- Ventriculo-peritoneal (V-P) shunting is a standard procedure for hydrocephalus management.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old child with craniopharyngioma developed progressive ascites and umbilical hernia one year after V-P shunting and tumor resection.
- Ascitic fluid analysis revealed a transudative nature, and imaging confirmed a patent V-P shunt.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with cerebrospinal fluid ascites (shunt ascites).
- Ventriculo-atrial shunting was performed to manage the complication.
Implications:
- This case highlights shunt ascites as a potential complication of V-P shunting in pediatric neurosurgery.
- Ventriculo-atrial shunting can be an effective treatment for cerebrospinal fluid ascites.
- Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes in pediatric patients with craniopharyngioma and hydrocephalus.
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