Efficacy of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting in Patients of Cryptococcal Meningitis with Intracranial Hypertension

Abstract Objectives Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting has been extensively in Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) patients of high intracranial pressure (ICP). Methods A total of 74 CM patients with ICP were identified, including 27 cases with or without ventriculomegaly receiving VP shunting. Results Through the retrospective analysis, there was an obvious decline in ICP as well as Cryptococcus count after VP shunting. Damage of cranial nerves was improved after the surgery. For the patients receiving VP shunting, there was an obvious decline in ICP as well as Cryptococcus count, with less usage of mannitol. Hydrocephalus or ventriculomegaly was improved, and both the clearance time of Cryptococcus and the hospitalization time were shortened (P  Conclusions For patients diagnosed as CM with apparent ICP, VP shunting can be considered no matter whether there is damage of cranial nerves or hydrocephaly.