Abstract
We report a case of a mid-20s primigravida at 37 weeks’ gestation who
presented with severe headache and acute neurological deterioration. The CT
brain scan showed hydrocephalus caused by a colloid cyst in the third
ventricle. The patient underwent emergency placement of an external
ventricular drain for decompression of acute hydrocephalus. Four hours
later, labour commenced spontaneously, and in view of her neurological
status, a decision was taken to perform a caesarean section under general
anaesthetics. Four days postpartum, the patient underwent an endoscopic
removal of the cyst. Intracranial emergencies during pregnancy are rare and
challenging to manage. The mortality rate can be significant. Diagnostic and
surgical intervention should not be delayed because of pregnancy. An
individualised treatment approach is required with multidisciplinary input.
The collaborative efforts of our multidisciplinary team resulted in prompt
diagnosis and surgical treatment in this case that resulted in both a
healthy mother and child.