Pronounced: Hi-dro-sef-uh-liss
Hydrocephalus is a condition in which too much fluid builds up in the brain. The fluid is called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It is a clear liquid that normally surrounds both the spinal cord and the brain.
Hydrocephalus occurs when:
Hydrocephalus can be:
Causes include:
Risk factors for hydrocephalus include:
Symptoms depend on the severity of the hydrocephalus. The CSF puts pressure on structures within the brain. Symptoms may start out mild and become more severe as CSF pressure increases.
Symptoms may include:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Tests may include:
Treatment may include:
If you are diagnosed with hydrocephalus, follow your doctor's instructions.
There are no known ways to prevent all cases of hydrocephalus. In general:
Preliminary research suggests that some cases due to brain bleeding in the newborn period may be preventable. Cytomegalovirus or toxoplasmosis acquired by a mother during pregnancy may be a cause of hydrocephalus in a newborn baby. Mothers may reduce their risk of being infected with toxoplasmosis with these steps:
Pet rodents (mice, rats, hamsters) often carry a virus called lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCV). LCV infection acquired from pets during pregnancy can lead to hydrocephalus. This is preventable by avoiding rodent contact.
Infection with chickenpox or mumps during or immediately after pregnancy may also lead to hydrocephalus in the baby. Both of these infections can be prevented with vaccination. Other preventable infections may also cause hydrocephalus. People who have risk factors for hydrocephalus should be carefully monitored. Immediate treatment might prevent long-term complications.
RESOURCES:
American Neurological Association
http://www.aneuroa.org/
Hydrocephalus Foundation, Inc.
http://www.hydrocephalus.org/
National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/index.htm/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html/
Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Canada
http://www.sbhac.ca/beta/index.php/
References:
Goetz CG. Textbook of Clinical Neurology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Company; 2007.
Hydrocephalus. Mayo Clinic website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/invoke.cfm?id=DS00393. Accessed July 1, 2009.
Kliegman R, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Company; 2007.
Last reviewed October 2009 by Rimas Lukas, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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