Risk Factors of Simon et al for a First Cerebrospinal (CSF) Shunt Infection

Description

Simon et al identified a number of risk factors associated with a first infection of a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt. These can help to identify a patient who may benefit from more aggressive management to avoid a shunt infection. The authors are from multiple Children's hospitals in the United States and Canada participating in the Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network.

Patient selection: pediatric patient with CSF shunt

Endpoint: first shunt infection

Shunt infections occurred in 11% of children during the study period

Risk factors for a first CSF shunt infection:

(1) number of shunt revisions (HR 3.9 for 1, HR 13 for >=2)

(2) gastrostomey tube (HR 2)

Factors associated with a reduced risk:

(1) history of neurosurgery prior to initial shunt placement

(2) age 6 to 12 months at initial shunt placement

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Risk Factors of Simon et al for a First Cerebrospinal (CSF) Shunt Infection

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