A Pericatheter Abscess Following Acupuncture in a Patient With VP Shunt

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Alternative Medicine

Background:

• A 25-year-old woman with a history of meningitis and hydrocephalus, treated with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, underwent scalp acupuncture for a subgaleal hematoma.
• Scalp acupuncture is an alternative therapy increasingly used for various conditions.

Observation:

• The patient developed a pericatheter abscess in the lateral neck.
• Clinical examination revealed a retained catheter associated with the abscess.

Findings:

• The abscess was successfully treated with radical debridement, cavity irrigation, and catheter removal.
• Culture of the abscess drainage identified *Staphylococcus aureus* as the causative agent.
• The patient recovered following appropriate antibiotic therapy.

Implications:

• This case underscores the risk of serious infections, including pericatheter abscesses, associated with acupuncture.
• Highlights the importance of sterile techniques and careful monitoring during and after acupuncture procedures.
• Emphasizes the need for increased vigilance regarding potential complications of alternative medicine modalities.