Abscess of the falciform ligament in a child with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt.

Falciform ligament abscess resulting from an infected ventriculoperitoneal shunt has not previously been described. This unusual type of abscess should be considered in a patient with an infected ventriculoperitoneal shunt who presents with epigastric tenderness. Signs of peritonitis may not be present if the abscess is localized. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scan may frequently establish the diagnosis.