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Index of Diseases and Conditions: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is the buildup of too much cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. Normally, this fluid cushions your brain. When you have too much, though, it puts harmful pressure on your brain.

There are two kinds of hydrocephalus. Congenital hydrocephalus is present at birth. Causes include genetic problems and problems with how the fetus develops. An unusually large head is the main sign of congenital hydrocephalus. Acquired hydrocephalus can occur at any age. Causes can include head injuries, strokes, infections, tumors and bleeding in the brain. Symptoms of acquired hydrocephalus can include

Hydrocephalus can permanently damage the brain, causing problems with physical and mental development. If untreated, it is usually fatal. With treatment, many people lead normal lives with few limitations. Treatment usually involves surgery to insert a shunt. Medicine and rehabilitation therapy can also help.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Hydrocephalus on Wikipedia

'''''Hydrocephalus''''' ('water-head', term derived from Greek language) is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricle (brain)s of the brain. This increase in intracranial volume results in elevated intracranial pressure.

History

Hydrocephalus was first described by Hippocrates, but it remained an intractable condition until the 20th century, when shunt (medical) and other neurosurgery treatment modalities were developed.

Causes

Hydrocephalus is caused by impaired cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production, flow or resorption. The most common cause of hydrocephalus is a flow obstruction, hindering the free passage of cerebrospinal fluid through the ventricular system and subarachnoid space (e.g. stenosis of the cerebral aqueduct, obstruction of the interventricular foramen - '''foramen of Monro'''). This can be secondary to tumors, hemorrhages, infections or congenital malfomations. It can also be caused by overproduction of cerebrospinal fluid (relative obstruction). Based on its underlying mechanisms, hydrocephalus can be classified into '''communicating''', and '''non-communicating''' (obstructive). Both '''communicating''' and '''non-communicating''' forms can be either '''congenital''', or '''acquired'''. '''Normal pressure hydrocephalus''' (NPH) is a particular form of '''communicating hydrocephalus''', characterized by enlarged ventricle (brain)s, with only intermittently elevated cerebrospinal fluid pressure. The diagnosis of NPH can be established only with the help of continuous intraventricular pressure recordings (over 24 hours or even longer), since more often than not, instant measurements yield normal pressure values. Dynamic compliance studies may be also helpful. Altered compliance (elasticity) of the ventricular walls, as well as increased viscosity ...   [ Read More ]

External Resources

Hydrocephalus Center - This hydrocephalus resource center has been created especially for those with hydrocephalus and their families. Resources, news, interviews and articles available online.

Hydrocephalus: A Guide for Patients, Families, and Friends - Educates families so they can select a neurosurgeon, understand treatments, discover where to turn for support, keep records needed for treatments, and make wise lifestyle choices.

Sylvan Fiberoptics - A cold light output portable fiberoptic transilluminator. State-of-the-art system for detecting pneumothoraces and hydrocephalus, identifying venipuncture sites, insertion of endotracheal tubes, and PICC lines.

Julia's Journey - Support and information written by a parent of a child with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, for other families who have children with these birth defects.

SBH Queensland - Community organization site with information on spina bifida, hydrocephalus, occulta, education.

Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Nova Scotia - Information about these conditions, and a calendar of events scheduled by the Association.

Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Ontario - Information, resources, support.

Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus - Information about spina bifida, hydrocephalus and related topics.

Devon ASBAH - Information on an association located in Devon, England to help, advise and assist people of all ages who are affected by either or both Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.

Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus - The Association provides services and support to those who live in the Surrey area with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus, their parents or other carers and professionals.

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