Surg Neurol
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Case Reports
Intramedullary spinal abscess: a case report with a review of 53 previously described cases.
A patient suffering from intramedullary spinal cord abscess associated with an infected dermal sinus, meningitis, and low-lying spinal cord, underwent laminectomy and drainage, after which there was marked improvement. Review of previously reported cases provides a better understanding of this process. The embryology and anatomy of cutaneous lumbrosacral defects are discussed with reference to their potential for subsequent infection and possible association with severe neurological dysfunction. Prophylactic intervention is recommended.
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Fifteen patients with non-traumatic encephalopathies underwent continuous monitoring of intracranial pressure. These included 11 children with Reye's syndrome, two with viral encephalitis, one with mushroom poisoning, and one with hypoxia from drowning. Elevated intracranial pressure was treated with decadron, hyperventilation, hyperosmolar agents and in some cases hypothermia and barbiturates. The results are discussed.
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Case Reports
Saccadic visual suppression and down-beat nystagmus: a case of Arnold-Chiari malformation.
A case is reported in which visual disturbances associated with the sole physical finding of downbeat nystagmus led to investigation of a patient for a foramen magnum lesion. The Arnold-Chiari malformation was suggested by air study and confirmed at surgery. ⋯ This was unaccompanied by any of the other neurological manifestations of the Arnold-Chiari malformation. Cases presenting in this manner, with only visual disturbances, may run the risk of being unrecognized for some time as a result.