Hypersensitivity Reaction to a Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt

 

Findings may include:

(1) The patient develops a shunt malfunction or ascites with negative cultures and no obvious cause.

(2) Examination of the removed shunt or ascitic fluid shows the presence of eosinophils.

(3) The shunt is made of latex or other material to which the patient is sensitive.

(4) A new shunt made of a material that the patient is not sensitive to shows normal function with no evidence of an allergic reaction.

 

Differential diagnosis:

(1) irritative effect associated with movement of the shunt

(2) drainage of a drug through the shunt that the patient is allergic to

(3) infection, including parasitic infection