Ventricular pneumocephalus with meningitis after lumbar nerve root block
Shin Ahn1, Young Sang Ko, Kyung Soo Lim
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, 388-1, Pungnap-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul 138-736, Republic of Korea.
Case Reports in Emergency Medicine
|June 14, 2013
Summary
A rare case of intraventricular pneumocephalus and bacterial meningitis occurred after a lumbar nerve root block. This highlights the potential for serious intracranial complications following the procedure, necessitating prompt medical attention.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Lumbar nerve root blocks are frequently used for radiculopathy management.
- Complications are typically minor, but significant acute events can occur.
- Pneumocephalus signifies dural breach or infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of intraventricular pneumocephalus and bacterial meningitis following a lumbar nerve root block.
- To emphasize the potential for severe intracranial complications from this procedure.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 70-year-old female presenting with headache and vomiting post-procedure.
- Cranial computed tomography (CT) scan identified intraventricular pneumocephalus.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis confirmed bacterial meningitis.
Main Results:
- The patient developed severe headache, vomiting, and intraventricular pneumocephalus.
- Bacterial meningitis was diagnosed via CSF analysis.
- The patient experienced persistent hearing loss as a sequela of meningitis despite treatment.
Conclusions:
- Intracranial complications, including meningitis and pneumocephalus, can arise from lumbar nerve root blocks.
- These are considered high-risk conditions requiring immediate intervention.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for patient outcomes.
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