Hydrocephalus

What is Hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition in which excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up in the brain’s ventricles, increasing pressure inside the skull and affecting normal brain function, especially in infants and children.

Causes

Hydrocephalus may be:

Congenital (present at birth) due to genetic or developmental problems.
Acquired later due to infections, brain tumors, head injuries, or bleeding in the brain.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

Rapid head growth in infants
Headaches
Vomiting
Vision problems
Balance difficulties
Developmental delays

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose hydrocephalus using ultrasound, CT scans, MRI scans, and neurological examinations.

Treatment

Treatment usually involves surgical procedures such as shunt placement or endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) to drain excess fluid and reduce pressure on the brain.

Prognosis

With early diagnosis and proper treatment, many children with hydrocephalus can live healthy and active lives.