What is Hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus is a condition that causes an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the vertices of the brain, where the fluid accumulates around the spinal cord and the brain. Due to blockage of the circulatory path in the brain, the amassed fluid causes enlarged ventricles that lead to increased pressure in the brain.
Types of Hydrocephalus:
- Communicating Hydrocephalus
- Non-communicating Hydrocephalus
- Normal pressure Hydrocephalus
- Congenital Hydrocephalus
- Acquired Hydrocephalus
- Hydrocephalus ex-vacuo
Symptoms of Hydrocephalus:
- Unusually large head at birth
- Sluggishness
- Eyes fixed downwards
- Blurred vision
- Loss of bladder control
- Decline in memory and other skills
- Poor coordination
- Inability to balance
Causes:
An imbalance in the absorption and production of cerebrospinal fluid in the blood can cause Hydrocephalus. Firstly, any obstruction can cause partial blockage of the flow of CSF from one ventricle to another or between the ventricles with other cavities in the brain. Another reason could be malabsorption due to the inflammation of brain tissues. Additionally, a rare cause of this disease is the over-production of cerebrospinal fluid.
The Phoenixx Magazine- August-September 2022
Risk factors for developing Hydrocephalus:
- Infections such as rubella syphilis in the uterus during birth
- Tumours or lesions of the spinal cord and brain
- Bleeding in the brain due to a stroke or head injury
Treatment:
Shunt: The most common treatment for this condition is inserting a flexible, long tube with a valve that ensures the fluid is drained in the correct direction and manner.
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy: A surgical procedure that uses a microscopic approach to make a small ventricle hole so fluid can drain.
