Haemophilus influenzae and Streptococcus pneumoniae infections in children with cerebrospinal fluid shunts.

Objective: This paper reviews the frequency of central nervous system infections due to Haemophilus influenzae and Streptococcus pneumoniae associated with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunts in pediatric patients. The need for immunizations in this patient population is also evaluated.

Patients: All patients with cerebrospinal fluid shunts except those with brain tumors seen in our clinics.

Methods: We reviewed data in three computer databases, kept prospectively recording details of CSF shunt procedures and CSF shunt-related infections.

Results: 1,226 patients underwent 3,889 shunt placements between 1957 and 2007. Twelve patients had 14 episodes of Haemophilus or pneumococcal infections.

Conclusions: Children with CSF shunts are at high risk for infection with H. influenzae and S. pneumoniae. Routine immunizations during infancy in addition to the 23-valent polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccine should be highly and actively encouraged by health care providers caring for children with CSF shunts. Additional expanded-coverage vaccines should be utilized if and when they become available.