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Child's Nervous System

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01-05-2010 | Brief Communication

Use of intrathecal urokinase in repeated shunt and external ventricular drain blockage from high CSF protein due to an optic pathway glioma

Authors: David Shooman, Girish V. Vajramani, Jennifer Davidson, Owen C. Sparrow

Published in: Child's Nervous System | Issue 5/2010

Abstract

Introduction

High cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein is a recognised association of optic pathway gliomas. This can occlude ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt catheters or external ventricular drains (EVD).

Case report

We describe an 8-year-old boy with an optic pathway glioma, who had frequent episodes of a blocked VP shunt and EVD due to high CSF protein level. This responded favourably to repeated urokinase instillation into the catheter lumen. We present the course of treatment and the method of administration and review the literature behind thrombolytic therapy for occluded catheter devices.

Conclusion

Intrathecal urokinase was effective in unblocking the EVD and lysing the protein clots within the ventricle. We found no previously published cases of intrathecal urokinase for this problem. This novel intervention seemed promising as a safe and effective means of maintaining EVD patency in cases complicated by excessive protein loads in CSF and hydrocephalus.

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Title: Use of intrathecal urokinase in repeated shunt and external ventricular drain blockage from high CSF protein due to an optic pathway glioma
Authors: David Shooman
Girish V. Vajramani
Jennifer Davidson
Owen C. Sparrow
Publication date: 01-05-2010
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Child's Nervous System / Issue 5/2010
Print ISSN: 0256-7040
Electronic ISSN: 1433-0350
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-009-1064-7

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Use of intrathecal urokinase in repeated shunt and external ventricular drain blockage from high CSF protein due to an optic pathway glioma

Abstract

Introduction

Case report

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Case report

Conclusion

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