Reversible CSF cyst related to a functioning ventriculo-peritoneal shunt

Acta Neurochir (Wien). 2005 Nov;147(11):1199-202; discussion 1202. doi: 10.1007/s00701-005-0603-6. Epub 2005 Aug 11.

Abstract

Although the occurrence of CSF oedema and cyst has been described in presence of a blocked ventriculoperitoneal shunt, especially distal end block, its occurrence in presence of a well functioning shunt has not been described so far. We report a case where a 51-year old lady developed an insidious onset and gradually progressive CSF cyst without any clinical or radiological feature of shunt block over a period of about 2 years. The changes started about 6 months after a course of radiation therapy for an extensive residual supra and infratentorial meningioma. Following surgery, where the cyst was punctured and a new ventricular catheter was inserted, despite well functioning upper and lower end, the cyst gradually disappeared. We review the literature and hypothesize that the radiation-induced changes were responsible for initiation and progression of the cyst.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cerebrospinal Fluid / physiology
  • Cysts / diagnosis
  • Cysts / etiology*
  • Cysts / physiopathology
  • Dura Mater / pathology
  • Dura Mater / physiopathology
  • Dura Mater / radiation effects
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus / etiology
  • Hydrocephalus / physiopathology
  • Hydrocephalus / surgery*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Meningioma / radiotherapy*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / radiotherapy
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology
  • Postoperative Complications / physiopathology
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Skull Base Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Telencephalon / pathology
  • Telencephalon / physiopathology
  • Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt / adverse effects*