Extradural haematoma complicating lumbar puncture following a craniotomy. A case report.

BACKGROUND

This case report illustrates the development of an intracranial extradural haematoma (EDH) as an uncommon complication of a lumbar puncture.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

A 10-year-old girl operated for intra-third ventricular cysticercosis developed postlumbar puncture headache after a drainage lumbar puncture (LP) on the 7th postoperative day. CT scan revealed a right frontal EDH away from the operative site.

INTERVENTION

The child was managed conservatively in view of her preserved sensorium.

RESULTS

The child had an uneventful recovery. Follow-up CT scans showed resolution of the haematoma.

CONCLUSIONS

LP, though considered to be a safe procedure, may rarely be associated with a potentially lethal intracranial haematoma, which can be managed successfully if diagnosed at an early stage.