Assessing bacterial prevalence and resistance in paediatric meningitis: safeguarding the central nervous system.

Introduction: Paediatric bacterial meningitis (PBM) represents a major contributor to childhood morbidity and mortality globally, with heightened susceptibility in low- and middle-income nations where antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is highly prevalent. Pakistan exemplifies this setting, with widespread antibiotic overuse driving AMR expansion. Thus, expediting PBM diagnosis and targeted antibiotic therapy is imperative yet challenged by the dynamic local epidemiology. This study aimed to delineate the recent bacterial etiologies and AMR profiles of PBM from a major Pakistani diagnostics laboratory to inform empirical treatment. Materials and methods: This prospective observational investigation evaluated PBM epidemiology in patients under 18 years old admitted to the study hospital. Standard cerebrospinal fluid analysis identified bacterial pathogens and antibiotic susceptibility patterns. Results: Among 171 PBM cases, 152 (88.9%) had bacterial isolates confirmed via culture. The cohort was 42.7% male with a mean age of 3 months. The most prevalent pathogens among infants younger than 3 months were Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecium, and Staphylococcus epidermidis, contrasting with S. epidermidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus hominis predominating in older children. Staphylococcal isolates exhibited considerable penicillin and erythromycin resistance but maintained vancomycin and linezolid susceptibility. Other resistance patterns varied. Conclusion: These findings highlight the pressing threat of paediatric AMR in Pakistan, underscoring the need for vigilant AMR surveillance and judicious antimicrobial use. This study provides a reference to current PBM epidemiology to guide context-specific empirical therapy.

Giant cerebral cavernous malformation in a newborn: a rare case report and review of literature.

BACKGROUND: Cavernous malformations (CMs), also known as cavernomas or cavernous angiomas, are vascular malformations characterized by sinusoidal spaces lined by endothelial cells. Giant CMs (GCMs) are extremely rare, with limited understanding of their presentation and management. We present a case of symptomatic GCM in a newborn and review the literature on this rare entity. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 1-month-old newborn presented with focal seizures and signs of increased intracranial pressure. Imaging revealed a massive right frontal-parietal GCM, prompting surgical resection. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of cerebral cavernous malformation. The patient recovered well postoperatively with no neurological deficits. CONCLUSIONS: GCMs are exceedingly rare in children and have not been reported in newborns until now. Symptoms typically include seizures and mass effects. Gross total resection is the standard treatment, offering favorable outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the natural history and optimal management of GCMs, particularly in newborns, emphasizing the importance of heightened clinical awareness for timely diagnosis and appropriate management.

Large Skull Metastasis in Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Case Presentation and Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Skull metastases from follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) are infrequent but clinically significant, often presenting with localized pain, neurologic deficits, and cranial nerve dysfunction. Early detection and accurate diagnosis pose challenges due to their asymptomatic nature in some cases. METHODS: A systematic literature review, conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, identified and analyzed 15 relevant studies focusing on large skull metastases in FTC. Data extraction and synthesis included clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, treatment strategies, and patient outcomes. RESULTS: The systematic review encompassed 20 patients with secondary skull metastases from FTC, offering insights into the clinical diversity of this rare condition. Clinical presentations varied, with localized pain (70% of cases) and headaches being predominant symptoms. Imaging techniques, including computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), played a pivotal role in diagnosis. Surgical resection was considered in select cases, achieving complete or near-complete tumor removal in 30 to 50% of patients. Radiotherapy, including external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), provided local control and symptom relief in 70 to 80% of cases. Systemic therapies, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), showed promise in disease stabilization or regression (45% of patients). Prognosis remained poor, with a median overall survival of 6 to 12 months, reflecting an advanced and aggressive disease state. CONCLUSION: Managing secondary skull metastases from FTC requires a comprehensive approach, including surgical intervention, radiotherapy, and potential systemic therapies. The rarity of these metastases underscores the need for further research to establish standardized treatment guidelines, explore molecular profiling, and investigate immunotherapy and combination therapies, offering hope for improved outcomes in this challenging clinical scenario.

Cystic meningiomas: A complex diagnostic challenge and clinicopathological insights from a unique case presentation.

Meningiomas present diverse clinical and radiological characteristics, with cystic formations constituting a lesser subset but posing significant diagnostic hurdles. We explore the complexities of cystic meningiomas through a distinctive case, highlighting the challenges in diagnosis and management due to their variable presentations. A 54-year-old female from Bengaluru, Karnataka, initially presented with transient memory disturbances. Brain MRI revealed a sizable left frontal cystic lesion exerting a mass effect and midline shift. However, rapid neurological decline led to an urgent surgical intervention via decompressive craniectomy unveiling unique intraoperative findings and with subsequent histopathological documentation of a Grade WHO 1 cystic meningioma. Cystic meningiomas present intricate diagnostic challenges resembling other intracranial lesions. Various classification systems attempt to categorize these tumors based on their imaging and histopathological characteristics. Despite this, atypical clinical manifestations often lead to misdiagnoses, necessitating a comprehensive approach to differential diagnosis. Further research is crucial to unravel the mechanisms underlying these tumors' cystic changes for improved diagnostic accuracy and tailored therapeutic interventions.

Osteoblastoma of the frontal sinus: A rare case presenting with seizures and pneumocephalus.

Key Clinical Message: Osteoblastoma of the frontal sinus, although rare, can manifest with seizures and pneumocephalus, underscoring the importance of thorough evaluation and complete surgical excision to prevent serious complications and ensure optimal patient outcomes. Abstract: Osteoblastoma is an infrequent bone tumor, with origins typically in the vertebrae and long bones. While craniofacial involvement is rare, it may occur in regions such as the paranasal sinuses. We present a case of osteoblastoma located in the frontal sinus, an exceptionally uncommon site, resulting in seizures secondary to pneumocephalus. A 21-year-old male presented with a generalized tonic-clonic seizure and postictal confusion. Imaging studies revealed a well-defined lesion in the left frontal sinus causing cortical breach, destruction of the posterior wall, and pneumocephalus. A total surgical excision was performed through bifrontal craniotomy. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of osteoblastoma. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with a follow-up CT scan showing complete lesion excision. Osteoblastomas, especially in the cranial sinuses, are rare entities that may present asymptomatically but can lead to severe complications. The risk of recurrence underscores the importance of complete surgical resection for optimal patient outcomes.

Assessing the impact of mixed reality-assisted informed consent: A study protocol.

Background: Informed consent is a crucial aspect of modern medicine, but it can be challenging due to the complexity of the information involved. Mixed reality (MR) has emerged as a promising technology to improve communication. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the impact of MR on medical informed consent. The proposed research protocol provides a solid foundation for conducting future investigations and developing MR-based protocols that can enhance patients' understanding and engagement in the decision-making process. Methods: This study will employ a randomized controlled trial design. Two arms will be defined: MR-assisted informed consent (MRaIC) as the experimental arm and conventional informed consent (CIC) as the control arm consent, with 52 patients in each group. The protocol includes the use of questionnaires to analyze the anxiety levels and the awareness of the procedure that the patient is going to perform to study the impact of MRaIC versus CIC before medical procedures. Results: The study will evaluate the impact of MR on patients' information comprehension, engagement during the process of obtaining informed consent, emotional reactions, and consent decisions. Ethical concerns will be addressed. Conclusion: This study protocol provides a comprehensive approach to investigate the impact of MR on medical informed consent. The findings may contribute to a better understanding of the effects of MR on information comprehension, engagement during the process of obtaining informed consent, psychological experience, consent decisions, and ethical considerations. The integration of MR technology has the potential to enhance surgical communication practices and improve the informed consent process.

Successful management of cervical tuberculosis and severe kyphosis using polyetheretherketone expandable cage and titanium plate: A case report.

Key Clinical Message: Successful management of cervical tuberculosis and severe kyphosis was achieved using a PEEK expandable cage and titanium plate, demonstrating favorable outcomes in restoring cervical alignment and stability. This approach represents a promising alternative for addressing complex cervical pathologies, highlighting the potential of PEEK-based interventions in surgical management. Abstract: Cervical tuberculosis can lead to severe vertebral destruction and kyphosis, posing challenges in surgical management. Recent advancements, including the use of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) expandable cages and titanium plates, show promise in addressing multilevel cervical pathologies. This report details the successful treatment of a 27-year-old male with cervical tuberculosis and severe kyphosis. Surgical intervention involved prevertebral abscess evacuation, C5-C7 corpectomy, and insertion of a PEEK expandable cage with an anterior titanium plate. Postoperative care included a Philadelphia collar, and follow-up demonstrated restored cervical alignment and stability. The use of PEEK-based surgical interventions, as demonstrated in this case, represents a significant evolution in managing complex cervical conditions. The successful outcome highlights the potential benefits of PEEK expandable cages in addressing cervical tuberculosis and kyphosis. Further research is needed to validate these findings and establish PEEK-based interventions as a viable alternative in such cases.

Scalp metastasis from atypical meningioma: A case report and literature review.

Key Clinical Message: Scalp metastasis from atypical meningioma, though rare, underscores the importance of meticulous surgical techniques to prevent tumor cell implantation. Early detection and comprehensive management, including surgery and adjuvant therapy, are crucial for optimal outcomes. Abstract: Meningiomas are tumors of the meninges that originate in the arachnoid layer from arachnoid cap cells. Atypical meningiomas, classified as WHO grade 2 tumors, tend to metastasize and recur if not surgically managed properly. Scalp metastasis is a rare occurrence that presents as a subcutaneous elevation. A 33-year-old patient presented with a complaint of a constant, dull pressure headache persisting for the past 12 months, exacerbated by exertion, along with seizures and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The patient had no significant medical history but had undergone surgery 4 years ago for a WHO grade 2 meningioma. The current brain MRI revealed a dural tail sign, along with masses on both the left and right sides of the frontal lobe, extending to involve the skin on the forehead and scalp. The patient underwent surgical resection and adjuvant radiation therapy. At the 12-month follow-up, no neurological deterioration or tumor recurrence was observed. A literature review on scalp metastasis in patients with atypical meningioma was also conducted, including eight articles published up to September 2023. The mechanism of metastasis development appears to be consistent in all eight reported cases, involving the implantation of tumor cells during resection. Therefore, there is a critical need for meticulous intra- and post-operative surgical techniques to prevent such implantation.

Neurosurgery and social media: A bibliometric analysis of scientific production from 2004-2023.

BACKGROUND: Neurosurgery is a rapidly advancing surgical specialty. Social media has significantly impacted the landscape of advancements in the field of neurosurgery. Research on the subject of neurosurgery and social media plays a vital role in combating disability and mortality due to neurological diseases, especially in trauma-affected individuals by increasing cooperation and sharing of clinical experiences between neurosurgeons via social media. This study aimed to evaluate the global neurosurgery and social media research performance from 2004-2023. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All the data for neurosurgery and social media-related research publications from 2004 to 2023 were extracted from the Web of Science database and a comprehensive analysis was performed on the R-bibliometrix package. RESULTS: An increasing number of publications with an annual growth rate of 22.04% was observed, with >91% of total articles published in the last decade. The United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), Italy, France, Canada and India made up of more than 67% of the global contribution. Out of 1449 authors, Chaurasia B was the most productive with 14 publications and the most globally cited document was JEAN WC, 2020 with 117 citations. The University of Cambridge was the leading institutional affiliation. World Neurosurgery was the most productive with >60 articles. CONCLUSIONS: Exploring neurosurgery on social media enhances global collaboration, utilizing dynamic platforms for real-time knowledge exchange and holds immense potential for the field's global advancement.

Spinal Intramedullary Meningiomas: A Systematic Review with a Case Illustration.

BACKGROUND: Intramedullary meningiomas are an exceptionally rare subtype of spinal tumors, accounting for only 5% of primary spinal neoplasms. Given their scarcity and unique characteristics, understanding optimal management approaches is crucial for improved clinical decision-making. This systematic review aims to consolidate existing literature and present a detailed case illustration to enhance understanding of this uncommon spinal tumor entity. METHODS: A systematic search adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines was conducted. Eligible studies included case reports, case series, cohort studies, reviews, and meta-analyses. Data extraction and synthesis focused on demographic characteristics, tumor location, clinical presentation, imaging findings, surgical interventions, histopathological features, and outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 15 high-quality scientific articles were included in the systematic review, providing insights into various aspects of intramedullary meningiomas. Demographic analysis revealed a broad age distribution with an equal gender distribution among affected patients. Common clinical presentations included difficulty walking, sensory disturbances, spastic paraparesis, and urinary incontinence. Neuroimaging findings demonstrated heterogeneous signal intensity variations on T1- and T2-weighted images, with variable enhancement patterns on gadolinium-enhanced images. Surgical interventions, predominantly total resection, resulted in favorable postoperative outcomes in most cases. CONCLUSIONS: Intramedullary meningiomas pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to their rarity and unique characteristics. Tailored surgical approaches, incorporating techniques such as intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring and fluorescence-aided resection, are crucial for minimizing neurological deficits and optimizing patient outcomes. Despite their infrequency, recognizing intramedullary meningiomas in the differential diagnosis of spinal tumors is essential for prompt diagnosis and timely intervention, ultimately improving patient prognosis.

Awake Craniotomy for Gliomas in the Non-Dominant Right Hemisphere: A Comprehensive Review.

Awake surgery has become a standard practice for managing diffuse low-grade gliomas (LGGs), particularly in eloquent brain areas, and is established as a gold standard technique for left-dominant-hemisphere tumors. However, the intraoperative monitoring of functions in the right non-dominant hemisphere (RndH) is often neglected, highlighting the need for a better understanding of neurocognitive testing for complex functions in the right hemisphere. This article aims to comprehensively review the current literature on the benefits of awake craniotomy in gliomas of the non-dominant right hemisphere. A systematic review was conducted using the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases with keywords such as "right hemisphere", "awake surgery", "direct electrical brain stimulation and mapping", and "glioma". The search focused on anatomical and surgical aspects, including indications, tools, and techniques of awake surgery in right cerebral hemisphere gliomas. The literature search identified 74 sources, including original articles, books, monographs, and review articles. Two papers reported large series of language assessment cases in 246 patients undergoing awake surgery with detailed neurological semiology and mapping techniques, while the remaining studies were predominantly neuroradiological and neuroimaging in nature. Awake craniotomy for non-dominant-hemisphere gliomas is an essential tool. The term "non-dominant" should be revised, as this hemisphere contributes significantly to essential cognitive functions in the human brain.

Correlation between choroid plexus carcinoma and Li-Fraumeni syndrome: implications of TP53 mutations and management strategies-a case-based narrative review.

BACKGROUND: Choroid plexus carcinomas (CPCs) are rare, aggressive grade 3 tumors of the central nervous system associated with Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) in a notable percentage of cases due to TP53 germline mutations. Understanding the correlation between CPCs and LFS is crucial for tailored management strategies. However, distinguishing CPCs from benign choroid plexus papillomas (CPPs) remains challenging, relying largely on histologic features. This study aimed to explore the association between CPCs and LFS, emphasizing the impact of TP53 mutations on diagnosis, treatment, and clinical outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched up to January 2024 using keywords related to CPCs, LFS, TP53 mutation, and central nervous system tumors. Selection criteria included studies investigating the link between CPCs and LFS, their management approaches, and genetic implications of TP53 mutations. Ten relevant studies were selected for analysis after screening titles, abstracts, and full-text articles. Data extraction focused on clinical, genetic, and management factors related to CPCs associated with LFS. RESULTS: The review highlighted the strong association (36%) between CPCs and LFS, primarily due to TP53 germline mutations. Studies emphasized the need for genetic testing in patients with CPCs, especially in pediatric cases, to identify LFS implications. Furthermore, the impact of TP53 mutations on treatment strategies was emphasized, recommending irradiation-sparing therapies due to inferior survival rates associated with radiotherapy in LFS patients with CPCs. Cases illustrated the challenges in diagnosing CPCs and the importance of immunohistochemistry and genetic testing for TP53 mutations. CONCLUSION: CPCs pose challenges in diagnosis and management, particularly in distinguishing them from benign tumors. The association with LFS, often due to TP53 germline mutations, underscores the importance of genetic testing for early detection and tailored treatment strategies. Irradiation-sparing therapies are recommended for LFS-associated CPCs to mitigate the risk of secondary malignancies. Comprehensive profiling of CPC patients, especially in pediatric cases, is crucial for early detection and management of potential secondary cancers associated with LFS.

Comparison of ventriculoperitoneal shunt versus endoscopic third ventriculostomy in managing hydrocephalus due to tuberculous meningitis: a randomized controlled trial with a 30-day follow-up.

Background: Hydrocephalus is a significant complication arising from tuberculous meningitis (TBM). While ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) remains the primary surgical approach for TBM-related hydrocephalus, there is a rising trend in the use of endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV). Materials and methods: This randomized controlled trial, conducted from February 2018 to July 2019, enroled 60 patients aged 20-50 with TBM-related hydrocephalus. Patients underwent either VPS or ETV. Both groups were followed up for a minimum of 30 days, evaluating clinical outcomes and modifications in the modified Vellore grading system. Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) assessments were conducted at 7-days and 30-day post-surgery for both groups. Results: The mean GCS scores were comparable between the two groups on the 7th and 30th postoperative days. The association between modified Vellore Grade and treatment modality did not show statistically significant differences (P=1.0 and P=0.3) on the seventh and thirtieth postoperative days respectively. Conclusions: Both VPS and ETV demonstrate efficacy in managing hydrocephalus secondary to TBM in adult patients. Our 30-day outcomes did not reveal discernible differences between the two procedures. Therefore, considering technical expertise and experience with ETV, it may be considered as the primary choice for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion in TBM-associated hydrocephalus, owing to its avoidance of several lifelong complications linked with VPS.

Intraventricular Cerebral Metastases: A Comprehensive Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Intraventricular cerebral metastases (IVCM) are a rare but clinically significant subset of brain metastases. This systematic review aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of IVCM by synthesizing current literature on epidemiology, clinical presentation, imaging features, pathophysiology, and treatment options. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted, identifying 11 relevant studies encompassing 11 studies encompassing 842 IVCM cases. Data regarding primary tumor origins, patient demographics, presenting symptoms, treatment modalities, and survival outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: IVCM cases displayed a diverse range of primary tumor origins, with the kidney (27.4%), thyroid (21.6%), lung (19.8%), colon (11.7%), melanoma (8.4%), and breast ductal carcinoma (7.9%) being common sources. Patients presented with a wide spectrum of symptoms, including headaches (42.3%), nausea (31.5%), altered mental status (25.7%), neurological deficits (18.2%), and others. Treatment approaches varied, encompassing surgical resection (41.2%), radiation therapy (32.5%), chemotherapy (15.3%), and immunotherapy (7.9%). Overall survival was generally limited, with a mean duration of approximately 10.3 months (±8.7 months). The time to recurrence after treatment exhibited considerable variability. CONCLUSION: IVCM represents a challenging and underexplored metastatic disease. This systematic review underscores the need for further research to enhance our understanding of IVCM's pathophysiology and develop tailored diagnostic and treatment approaches. Such efforts are crucial to improving outcomes and the overall quality of life for patients facing this complex condition. The multidisciplinary nature of IVCM management, involving neurologists, neurosurgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals, is emphasized as essential for individualized patient care.

The role of extended reality in eloquent area lesions: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: The surgical approach to lesions near eloquent areas continues to represent a challenge for neurosurgeons, despite all of the sophisticated tools currently used. The goal of surgery in eloquent areas is to maintain a good oncofunctional balance, that is, to preserve neurological function and ensure maximum tumor resection. Among all the available tools, extended reality (used to describe both virtual reality [VR] and mixed reality) is rapidly gaining a pivotal role in such delicate lesions, especially in preoperative planning, and recently, even during the surgical procedure. VR creates a completely new world in which only digital components are present. Augmented reality (AR), using software and hardware to introduce digital elements into the real-world environment, enhances the human experience. In addition, mixed reality, a more recent technique, combines VR and AR by projecting virtual objects into the real world, allowing the user to interact with them. METHODS: A systematic literature review of the last 23.5 years was conducted (January 2000-June 2023) to investigate and discuss all progress related to the emerging role and use of these new technologies (VR, AR, and mixed reality), particularly in eloquent area lesions as a pre- and/or intraoperative tool. RESULTS: Five hundred eighty-four published studies were identified. After removing duplicates and excluding articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 21 papers were included in the systematic review. The use of AR or VR was fully analyzed, considering their roles both intraoperatively and for surgical planning. CONCLUSIONS: The increasing use of such innovative technologies has completely changed the way to approach a lesion, using 3D visualization to foster a better understanding of its anatomical and vascular characteristics.

Improving mixed-reality neuronavigation with blue-green light: a comparative multimodal laboratory study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to rigorously assess the accuracy of mixed-reality neuronavigation (MRN) in comparison with magnetic neuronavigation (MN) through a comprehensive phantom-based experiment. It introduces a novel dimension by examining the influence of blue-green light (BGL) on MRN accuracy, a previously unexplored avenue in this domain. METHODS: Twenty-nine phantoms, each meticulously marked with 5-6 fiducials, underwent CT scans as part of the navigation protocol. A 3D model was then superimposed onto a 3D-printed plaster skull using a semiautomatic registration process. The study meticulously evaluated the accuracy of both navigation techniques by pinpointing specific markers on the plaster surface. Precise measurements were then taken using digital calipers, with navigation conducted under three distinct lighting conditions: indirect white light (referred to as no light [NL]), direct white light (WL), and BGL. The research enlisted two operators with distinct levels of experience, one senior and one junior, to ensure a comprehensive analysis. The study was structured into two distinct experiments (experiment 1 [MN] and experiment 2 [MRN]) conducted by the two operators. Data analysis focused on calculating average and median values within subgroups, considering variables such as the type of lighting, precision, and recording time. RESULTS: In experiment 1, no statistically significant differences emerged between the two operators. However, in experiment 2, notable disparities became apparent, with the senior operator recording longer times but achieving higher precision. Most significantly, BGL consistently demonstrated a capacity to enhance accuracy in MRN across both experiments. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated the substantial positive influence of BGL on MRN accuracy, providing profound implications for the design and implementation of mixed-reality systems. It also emphasized that integrating BGL into mixed-reality environments could profoundly improve user experience and performance. Further research is essential to validate these findings in real-world settings and explore the broader potential of BGL in a variety of mixed-reality applications.

Management of migrating spinal schwannomas: a surgeon's dilemma. Illustrative case.

BACKGROUND: A migrating spinal tumor is a rare phenomenon in the medical literature. Efficient management of these tumors is critical to avoid extended laminectomies. OBSERVATIONS: In this article, the authors present the case of a patient with a migrating lumbar schwannoma. They summarize a literature review of similar cases, highlighting the intraoperative challenges faced, and provide management guidelines for similar cases from their experience. LESSONS: Surgeons dealing with spinal intradural extramedullary lesions should always consider the possibility of tumor migration. Routine preoperative counseling regarding potential tumor migration and its efficient management is essential, as it reduces the risk of unplanned extensive laminectomy or durotomy, minimizing morbidity and medicolegal concerns and enhancing patient care.