Ventriculitis

Inflammation of the ventricles of the brain

Diagram of the ventricular system of the brain.

Cross-section of the brain showing the ventricles.

Lateral view of the brain ventricles.

Ventriculitis is an inflammation of the ventricular system in the brain. It is a serious condition that can result from infection, trauma, or neurosurgery.

Causes

Ventriculitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Bacterial infection: Commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae.
• Viral infection: Such as herpes simplex virus or cytomegalovirus.
• Fungal infection: Rare, but can occur in immunocompromised individuals.
• Trauma: Head injuries that affect the ventricular system.
• Neurosurgical procedures: Complications from surgeries involving the brain.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ventriculitis can vary depending on the underlying cause but often include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Neck stiffness
• Altered mental status
• Seizures

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ventriculitis typically involves:

• Lumbar puncture: To analyze cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for signs of infection.
• Imaging studies: Such as CT scan or MRI to visualize the ventricles and detect inflammation.
• Blood cultures: To identify the causative organism.

Treatment

Treatment of ventriculitis depends on the cause:

• Antibiotics: For bacterial infections, often administered intravenously.
• Antiviral drugs: For viral causes, such as acyclovir for herpes simplex virus.
• Antifungal medications: For fungal infections.
• Surgical intervention: In some cases, to drain infected CSF or relieve pressure.

Prognosis

The prognosis for ventriculitis varies. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a better outcome. Complications can include hydrocephalus, brain abscess, and long-term neurological deficits.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Proper aseptic techniques during neurosurgical procedures.
• Timely treatment of infections that could spread to the brain.
• Vaccination against common pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Related pages

• Meningitis
• Encephalitis
• Hydrocephalus

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