Hydranencephaly treatments: retrospective case series and review of the literature.

Objective: The objective of this study was to review treatment options for infants with hydranencephaly and to consider the pros and cons of each treatment modality.

Methods: This paper is a review of hydranencephaly as well as a retrospective analysis evaluating the outcomes of 52 infants with hydranencephaly who were treated at the Kijabe Hospital, Kijabe, Kenya, in one of four ways: ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) insertion, endoscopic choroid plexus coagulation (CPC), open choroid plexectomy (CPlx), and palliative care. The primary outcome measure was control of head size, with the aim of improving patient care.

Cerebrospinal fluid white blood cell counts in infants with myelomeningoceles.

Object: The authors undertook this study to determine white blood cell (WBC) counts in CSF obtained from lateral ventricles and myelomeningoceles (MMCs) in infants in a developing country at the time of their initial presentation for medical evaluation.

Methods: CSF was aspirated from the lateral ventricles and from MMC sacs of 100 consecutive infants at Kijabe Hospital, Kijabe, Kenya. Peripheral blood WBC counts and CSF WBC counts were determined in the laboratory.

Intraventricular baclofen for dystonia: techniques and outcomes. Clinical article.

Object: The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of intraventricular baclofen (IVB) for the treatment of severe generalized secondary and heredodegenerative dystonia.

Methods: Nine children and 1 adult with severe dystonia unresponsive to multiple oral medications were treated with IVB. Intraventricular catheters were positioned endoscopically in the third ventricle.

Intrathecal baclofen therapy in children.

Since its introduction in the late 1980s, intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy has become the standard treatment for severe generalized spasticity and dystonia in children. Treatment with ITB decreases spasticity in the upper and lower extremities and has been associated with improved function and decreased musculoskeletal contractures. In addition, ITB decreases generalized secondary dystonia and has been associated with improved comfort and ease of care in approximately 85% and with improved function in approximately 33% of patients.

Intrathecal baclofen withdrawal: emergent recognition and management.

Patients with severe spasticity are frequently encountered in the pediatric emergency department. Intrathecal baclofen therapy is being used increasingly to treat these patients. The purpose of this case series is to illustrate the importance of early recognition and treatment of intrathecal baclofen withdrawal, a potentially life-threatening complication of intrathecal baclofen therapy.