We reviewed the last 30 acoustic neuromas excised in our department and attempted to find out the factors associated with preservation of the facial and cochlear nerves. While the size of the tumour was the most important factor, vascularity and consistency were both important. Facial and cochlear nerves were preserved in 63% and 10% of the patients respectively. The importance of early diagnosis cannot be overemphasized.

A case where the administration of intrathecal gentamycin, used to treat a ventriculitis consequent upon a ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection, with a persistent elevation of the CSF leucocyte count is described. In a situation where the number of white cells in the CSF is taken to indicate resolution of infection, it is important to recognise that apparent failure of resolution of infection may be due to the gentamycin itself and not persistent infection.

No abstract