What is Hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus is characterized by excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) buildup within the brain’s ventricles.
When the circulation path is obstructed, fluid accumulates, leading to enlarged ventricles and increased pressure inside the head, causing hydrocephalus.
What are the Different Types of Hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus can be classified into different types based on factors such as the cause, age of onset, and specific characteristics.
The main types of hydrocephalus include:
- Communicating Hydrocephalus: In this type, the flow of CSF is obstructed after it exits the ventricles.
- Non-communicating Hydrocephalus: This type occurs when a blockage prevents CSF from flowing between the ventricles, accumulating fluid in the ventricles.
- Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: Characterized by an enlarged ventricular system without a significant increase in intracranial pressure, NPH typically affects older adults.
- Congenital Hydrocephalus: This type of hydrocephalus is present at birth and may be due to genetic factors or developmental issues during fetal growth.
- Acquired Hydrocephalus: This form of hydrocephalus develops after birth and can result from factors such as infections, tumors, bleeding within the brain (hemorrhage), or head injuries.
- Ex-vacuo Hydrocephalus: This type is not a true hydrocephalus; instead, it occurs when there is brain atrophy due to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or other neurodegenerative disorders.
What are the Symptoms of Hydrocephalus?
The symptoms of hydrocephalus differ based on the age and the severity of the condition.
In infants, the hydrocephalus symptoms may include:
- Rapid head growth
- Nausea
- Swelling of the soft spot on the head
- Lethargy
- Seizures
If present at birth, hydrocephalus can lead to profound intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities.
In adults, the symptoms of hydrocephalus may involve:
Main Symptoms:
- Memory problems
- Gait worsening
- Urinary incontinence
Additional Symptoms may be observed, such as:
- Headaches
- Vision problems
- Dizziness
- Personality changes
What are the Causes of Hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus can have various causes, and the factors leading to its development may differ depending on the specific type of hydrocephalus.
Here are some common causes:
- Obstruction in the regular flow of cerebrospinal fluid
- Poor absorption by blood vessels in tissues near the base of the brain often linked to brain tissue inflammation from disease or injury
- Overproduction, when the brain produces excess cerebrospinal fluid than it can be absorbed, is rare
- Bleeding within the brain, either due to trauma or other medical conditions
- Presence of lesions or tumors in the brain or spinal cord
- Central nervous system infections, like bacterial meningitis or mumps
How is Hydrocephalus Diagnosed?
Diagnosing hydrocephalus typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests.
Imaging tests used to diagnose hydrocephalus include:
Brain images to detect the enlarged ventricles:
MRI
CT or CAT scan
CSF tests to predict the shunt responsiveness and/or to determine shunt pressure:
- Lumbar or spinal tap with a large volume
- External lumbar drainage
- Measurement of CSF outflow resistance
How is Hydrocephalus Treated?
The hydrocephalus treatment in Dubai varies based on the type and severity of the condition.
- Shunt Placement:
The most common and effective treatment for hydrocephalus is the surgical placement of a shunt.
A shunt is a small, flexible tube implanted in the brain to redirect excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to another part of the body, often the abdomen. This allows for easier absorption of the fluid.
Shunts are generally effective in managing hydrocephalus, but occasional malfunctions may occur, potentially causing a recurrence of the condition.
- Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV):
In some cases, particularly with obstructive hydrocephalus, an alternative neurosurgery called ETV may be considered.
In the procedure, a small video camera is inserted to assist the surgeon in creating an opening at the base of the third ventricle facilitating cerebrospinal fluid drainage from the brain.
Patients require close, regular monitoring for complications following surgery. Complications or failures require prompt attention, surgical revisions, or other interventions.
Consult Dr. Martin Liner for Hydrocephalus Treatment in Dubai
Hydrocephalus is a complex condition with diverse causes, demanding timely diagnosis and intervention.
If you are facing challenges due to hydrocephalus, you can turn to the expertise of Dr. Martin Liner , an esteemed hydrocephalus doctor in Dubai.
With over two decades of extensive experience, Dr. Martin Liner – Spine Surgeon in Dubai, brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to providing personalized care. His comprehensive understanding of hydrocephalus allows him to offer tailored guidance to patients, ensuring an effective approach to managing this intricate condition.
