Hydrocephalus means water on the brain. It is occurs when there is excessive production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) inside the skull or inadequate reabsorption. Excessive accumulation of fluid within the limited space of skull imparts pressure on the brain and can causes damage to the brain tissue. It mostly occurs in children but may also occur in adults and old people. It may occur due to birth defects, genetic defects, infection of the central nervous system, traumatic brain injury, intracranialhaemorrhage or tumours of the brain or spine. The diagnosis can be confirmed by CT or MRI scan of the head. Sometimes lumbar puncture and examination of the cerebrospinal fluid is also done. Show
Treatment aims at improving the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid from the brain. It is done surgically by directing the brain fluid to other parts of the body such as abdominal cavity by placing a flexible plastic tube (shunt), from the brain to that region where it is absorbed. The flow rate of fluid is controlled by a valve which is incorporated into the shunt system. The shunt may get blocked, separated, kinked or infected. An alternate surgical procedure is called a third ventriculostomy. A third ventriculostomy is performed using an endoscope inserted into the ventricular system. An endoscope is a pen-sized instrument with an attached camera that sends pictures on the screen and allows visualisation of the ventricles. The surgery involves making tiny hole in the floor of the third ventricle thus bypassing the site of obstruction into the region where the CSF can be reabsorbed. OverviewHydrocephalus is the buildup of fluid in the cavities (ventricles) deep within the brain. The excess fluid increases the size of the ventricles and puts pressure on the brain. Cerebrospinal fluid normally flows through the ventricles and bathes the brain and spinal column. But the pressure of too much cerebrospinal fluid associated with hydrocephalus can damage brain tissues and cause a range of brain function problems. Hydrocephalus can happen at any age, but it occurs more frequently among infants and adults 60 and over. Surgical treatment for hydrocephalus can restore and maintain normal cerebrospinal fluid levels in the brain. Different therapies are often required to manage symptoms or problems resulting from hydrocephalus. SymptomsThe signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus vary somewhat by age of onset. InfantsCommon signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus in infants include: Changes in the head
Physical signs and symptoms
Toddlers and older childrenAmong toddlers and older children, signs and symptoms might include: Physical signs and symptoms
Behavioral and cognitive changes
Young and middle-aged adultsCommon signs and symptoms in this age group include:
Older adultsAmong adults 60 years of age and older, the more common signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus are:
When to see a doctorSeek emergency medical care for infants and toddlers with these signs and symptoms:
Seek prompt medical attention for other signs or symptoms in any age group. More than one condition can cause the problems associated with hydrocephalus, so it's important to get a timely diagnosis and appropriate care. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which information is
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unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesHydrocephalus is caused by an imbalance between how much cerebrospinal fluid is produced and how much is absorbed into the bloodstream. Cerebrospinal fluid is produced by tissues lining the ventricles of the brain. It flows through the ventricles by way of interconnecting channels. The fluid eventually flows into spaces around the brain and spinal column. It's absorbed primarily by blood vessels in tissues on the surface of the brain. Cerebrospinal fluid plays an important role in brain function by:
Too much cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles occurs for one of the following reasons:
Risk factorsIn many cases, the cause of hydrocephalus is unknown. However, a number of developmental or medical problems can contribute to or trigger hydrocephalus. NewbornsHydrocephalus present at birth (congenital) or shortly after birth can occur because of any of the following:
Other contributing factorsOther factors that can contribute to hydrocephalus among any age group include:
ComplicationsIn most cases, hydrocephalus progresses, which means complications, including intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities, can occur if it's not treated. It can also be life-threatening. Less severe cases, when treated appropriately, might have few, if any, serious complications. Sept. 03, 2021 What occurance results from obstruction within the ventricles of the brain or inadequate reabsorption of cerebrospinal fluid?If the CSF pathways are obstructed or obliterated by developmental or acquired abnormalities, CSF accumulates under pressure within the ventricular system. The ventricles begin to dilate, causing thinning and stretching of the cerebral mantle. This condition is called hydrocephalus.
What are the causes of hydrocephalus?Possible causes of acquired hydrocephalus include:. bleeding inside the brain – for example, if blood leaks over the surface of the brain (subarachnoid haemorrhage). blood clots in the brain (venous thrombosis). meningitis – an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.. brain tumours.. head injury.. What causes hydrocephalus in newborns?There is no one cause for the type of hydrocephalus babies are born with. It may be linked to a genetic defect or a complication of another disorder, such as spina bifida or encephaloceles. Children may also develop hydrocephalus after birth as a complication of: premature birth.
What are 4 types of hydrocephalus?The four types of hydrocephalus are communicating, noncommunicating, ex vacuo, and normal pressure. Diagnosis is typically made by physical examination and medical imaging. Hydrocephalus is typically treated by the surgical placement of a shunt system.
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