Long-Standing Shunts and Recurrent Cerebrospinal Fluid Pseudocyst Causing Small Bowel Obstruction in an Adult

We report a rare case of a recurrent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pseudocyst causing small bowel obstruction in an adult with a long-standing ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt for congenital hydrocephalus. Cerebrospinal fluid pseudocysts are uncommon complications of VP shunts and are most frequently described in pediatric populations. Adult cases leading to mechanical small bowel obstruction are exceedingly rare. This case highlights the importance of considering CSF pseudocysts in the differential diagnosis of VP shunt patients presenting with abdominal pain or obstructive symptoms, emphasizing the need for prompt imaging and multidisciplinary management to prevent complications.