Shunt surgery for hydrocephalus complicating cryptococcal meningitis in human immunodeficiency virus-negative patients.
From 1988 through 2001, 27 patients with cryptococcal meningitis who had hydrocephalus were identified and were treated by placement of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts. To assess the predictive value of the response to VP shunts in terms of outcome in these patients, univariate analysis for variables was performed. Poor outcome was associated with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of <or=8 (P<.001) and duration of altered consciousness of >48 h (P=.02). Use of VP shunts did not result in a good response or outcome in comatose patients. Thus, any delay in the diagnosis or treatment of patients with hydrocephalus could cause a deterioration of consciousness and is associated with poor outcome.
Liliang
Po-Chou
PC
Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Niao Sung Hsiang, Kaohsiung Hsien, Taiwan.
Liang
Cheng-Loong
CL
Chang
Wen-Neng
WN
Chen
Han-Jung
HJ
Su
Thung-Ming
TM
Lu
Kang
K
Lu
Cheng-Hsien
CH
D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003455:Cryptococcus neoformans / Q000187:drug effects / Q000302:isolation & purification; D005260:Female; D015600:Glasgow Coma Scale; D018023:HIV Seronegativity; D006801:Humans; D006849:Hydrocephalus / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D016919:Meningitis, Cryptococcal / Q000134:cerebrospinal fluid / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D017287:Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt / Q000379:methods*
D000935:Antifungal Agents