Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is an accumulation of excessive fluid in the brain. The fluid is cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid is always present to protect the brain. However, when excessive amount are present it will compress the brain. This will result in losing normal brain function.

Hydrocephalus can be found at birth, or afterwards. There are many causes of hydropcephalus. Defects of the spinal cord, bleeding in the brain, brain tumors, spinal cord tumors , or infections of the brain. They can also be caused by a stenosis which would block the pathway of brain fluid to the brain.

CT, MRI and Ultrasound scans are useful in correct diagnosis of hydrocephalus. These scans will show the dilated spaces containing the excessive fluid pockets.

Treatment for hydrocephalus is usually surgery. It is important that the excess fluid is drained out to reduce the compression. Fluid is drained by a tube in a procedure called a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt. There can be multiple complications from this procedure. Infection, bleeding inside the brain and over draining of brain fluid are possibilities.

Hydrocephalus in babies will usually result in mental impairment and will require alot of therapy and rehabilitation.