Radiography of hydrocephalus after total parenteral nutrition.

An infant with chronic diarrhea developed hydrocephalus following treatment with total parenteral nutrition (TPN) via jugular vein catheterization. Total parenteral nutrition is used when nutritional needs cannot be met adequately by oral alimentation. Serial computerized tomograms showed progression of communicating hydrocephalus. Superior sagittal sinograms demonstrated bilateral internal jugular vein occlusion with extensive venous collateralization. Lumboperitoneal shunt effectively decreased raised CSF pressure. A judicious approach to alternative venous routes for hyperalimentation is suggested. Radiographic delineation of communicating hydrocephalus by computerized tomography and superior sagittal sinography is presented.