Traumatic Posterior Fossa Subdural Hygroma and Secondary Occlusive Hydrocephalus.

BACKGROUND

Infratentorial subdural hygromas causing secondary occlusive hydrocephalus are extremely rare in children. Only a handful of cases have been reported in the literature.

METHODS

We present a case of a 6-month-old infant with an occipital fracture and slow enlargement of a posterior fossa subdural hygroma that culminated in obstructive hydrocephalus. We give a review of the literature on post-traumatic posterior fossa hygroma with secondary occlusive hydrocephalus and discuss its pathogenesis and the mechanism of its later resolution, as well as the available treatment options.

RESULTS

A temporary external ventricular drain led to acute relief of the hydrocephalus and subsequent complete resolution of the subdural hygroma.

CONCLUSION

Temporary external ventricular drain placement led to complete resolution of the subdural hygroma and hydrocephalus. We recommend close clinical follow-up, and imaging if indicated, for as long as 4 weeks after trauma with occipital skull fractures.