Why Does It Occur?
It results from
an imbalance in cerebrospinal fluid flow due to:
- Overproduction
- Blockage
- Impaired
absorption
It may be:
- Congenital
(present at birth)
- Acquired
(due to bleeding, infection, or tumors)
Symptoms
Symptoms vary
by age:
In Children:
- Enlarged
head size
- Bulging
fontanelle
- Developmental
delay
- Vomiting
or irritability
- Feeding
difficulties
In Adults:
- Headache
- Nausea or
vomiting
- Balance
problems
- Memory
issues
- Difficulty
walking
Medical
evaluation is important if symptoms appear.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
includes:
- Clinical
examination
- MRI
- CT scan
Early diagnosis
helps prevent complications.
Treatment Options
Treatment
depends on the cause and severity.
Shunt Placement
- A tube is
inserted to drain excess fluid
- Fluid is
redirected to another part of the body (usually the abdomen)
- Helps
reduce pressure
Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV)
- A
minimally invasive procedure to create a new pathway for fluid
- May
eliminate the need for a shunt in selected cases
Treatment is
tailored individually.
Follow-Up
Regular
follow-up is important to monitor treatment and ensure proper function of the
shunt or surgical outcome.
Is It Serious?
It can be
serious if untreated,
but with proper management, outcomes are significantly improved.
Importance of Early Treatment
Early treatment
helps:
- Reduce
pressure
- Support
brain development in children
- Preserve
neurological function
A Message to Patients and Parents
If you notice
unusual symptoms or changes,
early medical evaluation is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment,
helping protect brain health and development.