Concurrent Hydrocephalus and Ulcerative Colitis: Exploring the Role of IL18: A Case Report

Abstract

The coexistence of fetal hydrocephalus (HC) and ulcerative colitis (UC) within a single patient is exceptionally rare. This paper presents the case of a 4-year-old girl initially diagnosed with congenital hydrocephalus via in-utero ultrasonography at 20 weeks of gestation. Subsequent ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement was performed, and 3 years later, the patient was histologically and serologically diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. The synchronization of these distinct medical events in the same individual, particularly the interval between the treatments, represents an unprecedented occurrence not previously documented. The report details the patient’s recent presentation of recurrent bloody diarrhea and failure to thrive, which was effectively managed with oral prednisolone and sulfasalazine. Notably, the simultaneous manifestation of these conditions prompts consideration of potential contributing factors, including genetic markers such as interleukin 18 (IL 18), which have been linked to both disorders in existing literature. This case underscores the need for further research to elucidate the genetic and pathological markers, as well as predictors, which may underlie the concurrent occurrence of hydrocephalus and ulcerative colitis. Understanding these complexities could offer valuable insights into the intricate interplay of genetic and environmental factors in the development of such unique medical co-morbidities.