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Subdural empyema in children

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Abstract

Background

Subdural empyema denotes the collection of purulent material in the subdural spaceand is commonly seen in infants and older children. In infants, the most common cause is bacterialmeningitis. In older children, sinusitis and otitis media are usually the source for subdural empyema. Theclinical symptomatology is varied and has a wide range including prolonged or recurrent fever, seizures,meningeal irritation, and raised intracranial pressure. It can mimic as well as complicate meningitis and aheightened clinical awareness is therefore paramount.

Aims and Objectives

The clinical profile, etiopathogenesis, imaging features and management of subdural empyema in children is discussed and the relevant literature is reviewed.

Conclusion

Subdural empyema is a neurosurgical emergency and rapid recognition and treatment canavoid life-threatening complications. In most cases, surgical decompression through burr hole or craniotomyis warranted. Near complete evacuation of the purulent material and appropriate long-term intravenous antibiotics are necessary for a gratifying outcome.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neurosurgery, King Edward VII Memorial hospital, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India

    Dattatraya Muzumdar

  2. Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Bai Jerbai Wadia hospital for Children, Parel, Mumbai, India

    Naresh Biyani & Chandrashekhar Deopujari

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  1. Dattatraya Muzumdar
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  2. Naresh Biyani
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  3. Chandrashekhar Deopujari
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Correspondence to Dattatraya Muzumdar.

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Muzumdar, D., Biyani, N. & Deopujari, C. Subdural empyema in children. Childs Nerv Syst 34, 1881–1887 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-018-3907-6

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