Measurement of cerebrospinal fluid lactate levels in pediatric patients with suspected ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection. Retrospective cohort study

Abstract Introduction: Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) infection is a severe complication. Its early diagnosis could help to decrease morbidity and treatment costs. Lactate has been used for the diagnosis of other central nervous system infections. The aim of this study is to determine the usefulness of lactate for the diagnosis of VPS infection. Methodology: Retrospective cohort study. Patients who consulted between May 2019 and May 2022 with VPS dysfunction had lactate measured. Means were compared according to culture results. A ROC curve was performed to determine the appropriate cut-off point.Result: Lactate has a high negative predictive value, but low positive predictive value, for the diagnosis of ventriculitis.