23 Aug What causes infantile hydrocephalus?
Infantile hydrocephalus is the accumulation of fluid within the deep cavities of the brain of an infant or child. This excess fluid increases the size of the ventricles and puts pressure on the brain of the sufferer.
The fluid flows through the ventricles and covers the brain and spinal column. However, pressure from too much cerebrospinal fluid associated with hydrocephalus can damage brain tissues and cause various problems with brain function.
It can occur at any age, but occurs most often in infants and adults 60 years of age and older.
What are the causes?
It is caused by an imbalance between the amount of cerebrospinal fluid that is produced and the amount that is absorbed into the bloodstream. Other contributing factors may include an injury or tumor in the brain or spinal cord, an infection in the central nervous system, such as bacterial meningitis or mumps, bleeding in the brain due to an accident or traumatic injury in the brain.
What are the symptoms?
- Unusually large head
- Rapid increase in head size
- Bulge or plumbing on the top of the head.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sloth Irritability
- Poor nutrition
- Seizures
- Eyes pointing down
- Problems with muscle tone
In adults some extra symptoms are:
- Loss of coordination
- Loss of bladder control
- Vision problems
- Memory impairment.
What is the treatment?
Surgical treatment can restore and maintain normal levels of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. Different therapies are often required to control the symptoms or problems caused by hydrocephalus.
If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention.
The most qualified doctor to perform this procedure and carry out the entire process is a Pediatric Neurosurgeon, say so , click on our contact section to schedule a consultation.