Subdural Effusion Overview

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Learn About Subdural Effusion

What is the definition of Subdural Effusion?

A subdural effusion is a collection of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) trapped between the surface of the brain and the outer lining of the brain (the dura matter). If this fluid becomes infected, the condition is called a subdural empyema.

What are the causes of Subdural Effusion?

A subdural effusion is a rare complication of meningitis caused by bacteria. Subdural effusion is more common in infants.

It may also occur after head trauma.

What are the symptoms of Subdural Effusion?

Symptoms may include:

  • Outward curving of a baby's skull's soft spot (bulging fontanelle)
  • Abnormally wide spaces in the bony joints of a baby's skull (separated sutures)
  • Increased head circumference
  • Low energy (lethargy)
  • Persistent fever
  • Seizures
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness or loss of movement on both sides of the body
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What are the current treatments for Subdural Effusion?

Surgery to drain the effusion is often necessary. The fluid is usually tested. In rare cases, a permanent drainage device (shunt) is needed to drain fluid. Antibiotics may need to be given through a vein.

Treatment may include:

  • Surgery to drain the effusion
  • Drainage device, called a shunt, left in place for a short time or longer time
  • Antibiotics given through a vein to treat an infection
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What is the outlook (prognosis) for Subdural Effusion?

Full recovery from a subdural effusion is expected. If nervous system problems continue, they are generally due to the meningitis, not the effusion. Long-term antibiotics are usually not needed.

What are the possible complications of Subdural Effusion?

Complications of surgery may include:

  • Bleeding
  • Brain damage
  • Infection
When should I contact a medical professional for Subdural Effusion?

Contact your provider if:

  • Your child has recently been treated for meningitis and symptoms continue
  • New symptoms develop
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Who are the sources who wrote this article ?

Published Date: August 19, 2024
Published By: Joseph V. Campellone, MD, Department of Neurology, Cooper Medical School at Rowan University, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

What are the references for this article ?

De Vries LS, Volpe JJ. Bacterial and fungal intracranial infections. In: Volpe JJ, ed. Volpe's Neurology of the Newborn. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 39.

Kim KS. Bacterial meningitis beyond the neonatal period. In: Cherry JD, Harrison GJ, Kaplan SL, Steinbach WJ, Hotez PJ, eds. Feigin and Cherry's Textbook of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 31.

Nath A. Meningitis: bacterial, viral, and other. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 381.