Investigating the types of microorganisms causing cerebrospinal fluid shunt infection in King Abdullah University Hospital in Jordan

• DOI: 10.5339/qmj.2025.11
• Publication Date: 2025-04-21T07:30:26Z
• Authors: Sulieman Daoud; Atef Hulliel; Sultan Jarrar; Amer Jaradat; Mohammad Jamous; Majd M. Al Barakat; Aseel Rabadi; Nataly Al-zu'bi
• Keywords: Acinetobacter baumannii

Background: Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) placement treats hydrocephalus by draining excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Despite advances, infections remain a common complication, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Infection rates range from 7.2 to 18%, with pathogens being Staphylococcus epidermidis aureus . Risk factors include young age, postoperative CSF leakage, prolonged surgery, previous infections. The aim of this study was describe the prevalence at King Abdullah University Hospital (KAUH), assess infection pediatric adult patients, report causative microorganisms. Methods: A retrospective analysis conducted on all patients shunt-related our hospital (KAUH) over last 17 years (2005–2023). patients’ demographics, laboratory results, details microorganisms were collected. Results: Of 579 who underwent shunting KAUH Jordan, 59 (10.1%) had positive culture for infection. majority children (83.1%) median age 9 months higher proportion male (57.6%). Most due congenital anomalies (74.6%). time 13 days, 13.5% experiencing recurrent Recurrent found be significantly ( p = 0.00007). most Acinetobacter baumannii (47.5%) species (40.7%). Analysis group showed association between 0.008). Conclusion: provided demographic microbiological data VPS infections, organism. Treatment these remains challenging, highlighting need more comparative research different treatment options.