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[Expectoration of cerebrospinal fluid: an unusual complication of ventriculoperitoneal shunt]

N P Ferreira, D M Costa, J A Flores

    Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquiatria
    |December 1, 1980
    PubMed

    Insights

    A child experienced pneumonia and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) expectoration after ventriculoperitoneal shunting. The shunt catheter migrated, perforating the diaphragm and lung, causing respiratory issues that resolved upon removal.

    Area of Science:

    • Neurosurgery
    • Pediatric Surgery
    • Pulmonology

    Background:

    • Ventriculoperitoneal shunting is a common procedure for hydrocephalus in children.
    • Complications can arise from shunt malfunction or migration.
    • Respiratory complications are rare but serious.

    Observation:

    • A child presented with recurrent pneumonia and expectoration of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
    • Chest X-ray revealed the shunt catheter within the left lung parenchyma.
    • The distal catheter end had perforated the diaphragm and pleura.

    Findings:

    • The misplaced shunt catheter led to CSF leakage into the thoracic cavity and lungs.
    • This resulted in recurrent pneumonia and CSF expectoration.
    • Catheter migration to the infradiaphragmatic space was theorized as the cause.

    Implications:

    • This case highlights a rare but critical complication of ventriculoperitoneal shunting.
    • Prompt diagnosis and removal of the migrated catheter are essential for recovery.
    • Understanding shunt migration pathways is crucial for preventing such events.

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