Health Encyclopedia

Subdural effusion

Definition

A subdural effusion is a collection of pus beneath the outer lining of the brain.

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
Damage to brain structures, which can lead to temporary or permanent brain and nervous system (neurological) problems
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

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.

Review Date:10/30/2008
Reviewed By:David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and 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.

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