Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a condition in which an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) occurs within the brain. This typically causes increased pressure inside the skull.

DIAGNOSIS

The most common initial diagnostic test to determine hydrocephalus at any age is an image of the brain using CT or MRI.

Symptoms

• Vomiting.
• Sleepiness.
• Irritability.
• Poor feeding.
• Seizures.
• Eyes fixed downward (sunsetting of the eyes)
• Deficits in muscle tone and strength.
• Poor responsiveness to touch

Causes

• Bleeding inside the brain – for example, if blood leaks over the surface of the brain (subarachnoid haemorrhage)
• Blood clots in the brain (venous thrombosis)
• Meningitis – an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
• Brain tumours.
• Head injury.

FAQ

not available currently