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| Hydrocephalus |
Hydrocephalus
Definition:
Hydrocephalus comes from the Greek: "hydro" means water, "cephalus" means head. Hydrocephalus is an abnormal accumulation of
cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within cavities called ventricles inside the brain. CSF is produced in the ventricles, circulates
through the ventricular system and is absorbed into the bloodstream. CSF is in constant circulation and has many important
functions. It surrounds the brain and spinal cord and acts as a protective cushion against injury. CSF contains nutrients and
proteins necessary for the nourishment and normal function of the brain. It also carries waste products away from surrounding
tissues. Hydrocephalus occurs when there is an imbalance between the amount of CSF that is produced and the rate at which it is
absorbed. As the CSF builds up, it causes the ventricles to enlarge and the pressure inside the head to increase.
Hydrocephalus that is congenital (present at birth) is thought to be caused by a complex interaction of environmental and perhaps
genetic factors. Aqueductal stenosis and spina bifida are two examples. Acquired hydrocephalus may result from intraventricular
hemorrhage, meningitis, head trauma, tumors and cysts. Hydrocephalus is believed to occur in about 2 out of 1,000 births. The
incidences of adult-onset hydrocephalus and acquired hydrocephalus are not known.
Treatment:
There is no known way to prevent or cure hydrocephalus. The most effective treatment is surgical insertion of a shunt. Endoscopic
third ventriculostomy (ETV) is growing in popularity as an alternative treatment method for hydrocephalus.
This information was obtained from The Hydrocephalus Association. More information can be found on their website at: http://www.hydroassoc.org/
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