Acinetobacter baumannii ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection in the pediatric population: Clinical assessment and microbiological profile

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt infections, notably when caused by Acinetobacter baumannii, present significant management challenges in pediatric neurosurgery due to antibiotic resistance. This study assesses clinical profiles, microbiological characteristics, treatment strategies, and outcomes of these infections. A retrospective review at King Abdullah University Hospital, North Jordan, analyzed 27 pediatric cases of Acinetobacter baumannii VP shunt infections from 2013 to 2023. Data on demographics, clinical presentation, treatment strategies, and outcomes, including cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) clearance time and time to shunt re-insertion, morbidity, and mortality were evaluated. Colistin showed efficacy against multidrug-resistant strains, despite overall high resistance to conventional antibiotics. Infections predominantly occurred early post-surgery and an 11.1% mortality rate was observed. VP shunt infections caused by Acinetobacter baumannii significantly impact pediatric patients, emphasizing the need for early detection and the development of targeted treatment approaches. Colistin may offer a viable option against resistant strains, but prolonged hospitalization and mortality rates call for improved preventive measures.