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Intrathecal Application of a Fluorescent Dye for the Identification of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks in Cochlear Malformation
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Published on: February 29, 2020

Haemophilus influenzae infections of cerebrospinal fluid shunts. Report of two cases

S J Lerman

    Journal of Neurosurgery
    |February 1, 1981
    PubMed

    Insights

    Central nervous system infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae in patients with cerebrospinal fluid shunts are rare. Systemic antibiotics alone may effectively treat these shunt infections, differing from other bacterial causes.

    Area of Science:

    • Medical Microbiology
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Neurosurgery

    Background:

    • Central nervous system (CNS) infections pose significant risks, particularly in patients with medical devices.
    • Haemophilus influenzae is a notable pathogen in pediatric meningitis.
    • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunts are used to manage hydrocephalus but can be a site for infection.

    Observation:

    • Two cases (1%) of 165 CNS infections involved Haemophilus influenzae in patients with CSF shunts.
    • The specific strains of Haemophilus influenzae were untypeable in these cases.
    • Clinical presentation resembled other shunt infections.

    Findings:

    • The pathogenesis of these Haemophilus influenzae shunt infections might mirror that of non-shunt H. influenzae meningitis.
    • Systemic antibiotic therapy alone, without shunt removal or intraventricular antibiotics, showed potential success.
    • This contrasts with treatment approaches for shunt infections caused by other bacteria.

    Implications:

    • Haemophilus influenzae shunt infections may have a distinct therapeutic profile.
    • Conservative management with systemic antibiotics could be a viable strategy.
    • Further research is warranted to confirm treatment efficacy and understand pathogenesis.

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