About the disease
Hydrocephalus is the build-up of water in the skull, when brain begins to swell. It can result in physical and intellectual impairments, that is why it needs to be treated once diagnosed in order to avoid complications.
This condition is most prevalent in young children and the elderly. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), 1 baby in 1000 is born with this disease. Hydrocephalus develops if there is an excessive amount of cerebrospinal fluid. This can happen if person`s brain produces too much of this fluid or if the blood vessels are not able to absorb it properly. It can also develop if there is blockage of the brain. This condition can be congenital if a child has defects of the spinal column or if the mother contracted infections during pregnancy, such as rubella. It can develop in little children because of meningitis, which is an infection of the central nervous system. It can also occur after the brain injury or brain tumor.
Symptoms
- Bulge on the surface of the skull
- Vomiting
- Sleepiness
- Increased skull size
- Poor muscle strength
- Fussiness
- Brain seizures
- Problems with eating
- Irritability
- Loss of coordination
- Poor memory
- Headaches
Children with this condition cry in a high voice and it's extremely difficult to pacify them. Toddlers and young children of 3-7 years old experience behavioral changes, it`s difficult for them to study and concentrate. Older people who have this condition can begin falling down suddenly without initial loss of consciousness.
Diagnosis
- General physical test helps doctor to see if the structure of the skull is abnormal, if patient`s eyes are sunken in and if head circumference is bigger than it needs to be for the child`s age.
- Reflex test is used to determine if person`s reflexes work properly.
- MRI scan can determine if there is an excessive amount of the cerebrospinal fluid.
Treatment
Treatment of hydrocephalus aims to restore the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid to prevent it from damaging the brain tissues.
In most cases patient needs to undergo surgery.
- Shunt insertion is the most common type of surgery for this condition. A shunt, which is a special drainage device, is inserted into the brain from one side and into the chest from another. Thus, the excess fluid is transported to the place, where it can be absorbed. Such transplant is usually worn permanently.
- Ventriculostomy is another surgery, used more rarely, during which a hole is done between the ventricles, which makes it possible for the excess fluid to efflux from the brain.
After surgery, person is able to live a long life, but he needs to lead a healthy lifestyle in order to prevent occurrence of seizures.
Authors: Dr. Vadim Zhiliuk, Dr. Sergey Pashchenko
