Which is TRUE of cerebrospinal fluid shunts? (A) A lumbar...

Name: Problem 15, Chapter 15: Emergency Medicine Examination & Board Review
Uploaded: 2021-03-09T17:22:02-08:00
Duration: 2 min 17 s
Channel: Leah Lampen
Description: Which is TRUE of cerebrospinal fluid shunts? (A) A lumbar puncture performed by the emergency physician is indicated when a shunt infection is suspected. (B) Shunt infections are more common the longer the shunt has been in place. (C) Staphylococcus epidermidis is the pathogen responsible for half of all shunt infections. (D) Vomiting is the cardinal sign of a shunt malfunction.

Which is TRUE of cerebrospinal fluid shunts? (A) A lumbar puncture performed by the emergency physician is indicated when a shunt infection is suspected. (B) Shunt infections are more common the longer the shunt has been in place. (C) Staphylococcus epidermidis is the pathogen responsible for half of all shunt infections. (D) Vomiting is the cardinal sign of a shunt malfunction.

Which is TRUE of cerebrospinal fluid shunts?
(A) A lumbar puncture performed by the emergency physician is indicated when a shunt infection is suspected.
(B) Shunt infections are more common the longer the shunt has been in place.
(C) Staphylococcus epidermidis is the pathogen responsible for half of all shunt infections.
(D) Vomiting is the cardinal sign of a shunt malfunction.

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Key Concepts

Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunts

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunts are devices implanted to divert excess CSF from the brain’s ventricles to another body cavity, such as the peritoneum, to relieve conditions like hydrocephalus. They are a critical treatment modality in neurosurgery and require regular monitoring for complications.

Shunt Infections

Shunt infections are a significant complication associated with CSF shunts and typically occur early after implantation. These infections often require prompt diagnosis and treatment, as they can lead to serious morbidity. Understanding the timing and risk factors of these infections is essential for appropriate management.

Staphylococcus epidermidis

Staphylococcus epidermidis is a common pathogen associated with device-related infections, including CSF shunt infections. It is known for its ability to form biofilms on medical devices, making it a frequent and challenging cause of infection in neurosurgical patients.

Clinical Presentation of Shunt Malfunction

The clinical presentation of a shunt malfunction can vary, but it often includes symptoms related to increased intracranial pressure such as headache, altered mental status, and possibly nausea or vomiting. Recognizing the spectrum of symptoms is important for timely diagnosis and intervention.

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