GM1 Ganglioside Concentration in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Hydrocephalic Infants and Children

Abstract

Ventricular fluid taken from 29 children with active hydrocephalus was assayed for GM1 ganglioside level and correlated with gross assessment of intellectual outcome. Normal levels of GM1 ganglioside were consistent with grossly normal intellectual function. Marked elevations of GM1 ganglioside were found in the ventricular fluid of severely retarded children. No definitive pattern of GM1 ganglioside level was found in moderately retarded children.