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Can CT predict the level of CSF block in tuberculous hydrocephalus?

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Abstract

Introduction

Treatment of obstructive hydrocephalus in children with tuberculous meningitis (TBM) depends on the level of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) block. Air-encephalography is regarded as the gold standard for differentiating communicating and non-communicating hydrocephalus. Since air-encephalography involves a lumbar puncture, it carries the risk of cerebral herniation.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine whether communicating and non-communicating hydrocephalus in TBM can be differentiated by means of cranial computerised tomography (CT).

Methods

A number of CT indices were measured in 50 children with communicating and 34 children with non-communicating hydrocephalus according to air-encephalographic findings.

Results

The only CT finding that correlated with the type of hydrocephalus was the shape of the third ventricle. Significantly more children with non-communicating hydrocephalus had a rounded third ventricle than those with communicating hydrocephalus.

Conclusion

CT is therefore not useful in determining the level of CSF block in TBM. Air-encephalography remains the most reliable way of determining the level of CSF obstruction.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Tygerberg Hospital, PO Box 19063, 7505, Tygerberg, South Africa

    G. E. Bruwer & J. F. Schoeman

  2. Department of Radiology, Tygerberg Hospital, PO Box 19063, 7505, Tygerberg, South Africa

    S. Van der Westhuizen

  3. Biostatistics Unit, Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa

    C. J. Lombard

Authors
  1. G. E. Bruwer
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  2. S. Van der Westhuizen
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  3. C. J. Lombard
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  4. J. F. Schoeman
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to J. F. Schoeman.

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Bruwer, G.E., Van der Westhuizen, S., Lombard, C.J. et al. Can CT predict the level of CSF block in tuberculous hydrocephalus?. Childs Nerv Syst 20, 183–187 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-003-0887-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-003-0887-x

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