Subdural effusion - All Information

Definition of Subdural effusion:

A subdural effusion is a collection of fluid beneath the outer lining of the brain. If this fluid becomes infected, the condition is called a subdural empyema.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

A subdural effusion is a rare complication of bacterial meningitis. Subdural effusion is more common in infants and in persons who have meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae.

Symptoms:

Bulging fontanelles
Increased head circumference
Lethargy
Persistent fever
Seizures
Separated sutures
Vomiting
Weakness

Signs and tests:

There is often a recent history of bacterial meningitis. Tests include:

Treatment:

Surgery to drain the effusion is often necessary. Rarely, a permanent drainage device (shunt) is needed to drain fluid. Antibiotics may need to be given through a vein.

Expectations (prognosis):

Full recovery from a subdural effusion is expected. If neurological problems continue, they are generally due to the meningitis, not the effusion. Long-term use of antibiotics is usually not necessary.

Complications:

Complications from surgery include:

Bleeding
Brain damage
Infection

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if:

Your child has recently been treated for meningitis and symptoms continue
New symptoms develop

Reviewed last on: 9/13/2010
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Swartz MN. Meningitis: bacterial, viral, and other. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 437.

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