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Vancomycin treatment of cerebrospinal fluid shunt infections. Report of two cases
Journal of Neurosurgery
|August 1, 1979
Abstract:
The successful use of vancomycin is reported in two children with shunt infections due to Staphylococcus epidermidis which failed to respond to shunt removal. The previously reported experience with this drug is reviewed. The use of vancomycin should be considered in cases of shunt infections due to susceptible microorganisms and refractory to other therapeutic measures.
Insights
Vancomycin successfully treated shunt infections caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis in two children when shunt removal failed. This antibiotic is a viable option for difficult-to-treat shunt infections.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Neurosurgery
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Shunt infections, particularly those caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis, pose a significant challenge in neurosurgical patients.
- Standard treatment often involves shunt removal and antibiotic therapy, but infections can be refractory.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases of shunt infections caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis are presented.
- These infections did not respond to surgical shunt removal.
Findings:
- Vancomycin administration led to successful treatment outcomes in both children.
- The study reviews prior vancomycin experience for shunt infections.
Implications:
- Vancomycin should be considered for shunt infections caused by susceptible microorganisms unresponsive to other treatments.
- This highlights vancomycin's role in managing complex pediatric shunt infections.
- Further research into optimal vancomycin dosing and duration for shunt infections is warranted.