Transient acute obstructive hydrocephalus of unknown origin in a 13-month-old infant

SummaryWe report on a case of a 13-month-old female infant who was admitted to our department with the chief complaints of drowsiness and vomiting. A history of an unspecified viral infection was reported.Clinical examination was negative for focal neurological signs or signs of central nervous system infection. Initial CT scan revealed obstructive hydrocephalus, and shunting was scheduled.Dexamethasone treatment was started.Eight hours after admission the child almost restored his baseline mental status and the operation was postponed.The dexamethasone treatment was discontinued 3 days later. Follow up CT and MRI scans were normal.We discuss the case and the possible causes of transient hydrocephalus in children.