Hydrocephalous

Definition:

A condition characterized by fluid buildup in the brain due to disrupted circulation or absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Causes:

Blockage in CSF Flow:
Obstruction within the brain's ventricles prevents fluid movement.

Impairment in Subarachnoid Space Flow:
Reduced flow of CSF within the subarachnoid space surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

CSF Absorption Issues:
Problems in reabsorbing CSF into the bloodstream, often due to malfunctioning arachnoid granulations.

Symptoms:

Physical Changes:

Enlarged head size (in infants).

Widened cranial sutures.

Abnormal skull shape and prominent veins.

Health and Functional Decline:

Physical weakness.

Cognitive deterioration.

Seizures.

Diagnostic Tests:

Skull X-Ray:
Reveals abnormalities in bone structure due to pressure.

Computed Tomography (CT):
Detects ventricular enlargement or obstructions.

Transfontanelle Ultrasound:
A non-invasive test for infants, examining fluid buildup.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
Provides detailed images of brain structures and CSF pathways.

Treatment
typically involves surgical interventions such as
ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting
or
endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV)
to restore normal CSF flow.