Hydrocephalus is a condition when excessive amount of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates in the brain. Among the most common causes of Hydrocephalus are:

• Obstruction that prevents proper CSF circulation, drainage or reabsorbtion;
• Overproduction of CSF (rare).

This fluid builds up in brain ventricles and causes elevated pressure in the brain. Long lasting pressure on the brain tissue leads to brain damage and even death.

Hydrocephalus can be congenital (appear at birth) or acquired (appear at any age).

Symptoms of hydrocephalus vary by the disease progression and the age of the patient. Usually symptoms include headache, loss of coordination or balance, urinary incontinence, memory loss, vomiting and other. Children with hydrocephalus can develop learning, behaviour, motivation and visual problems. Children with hydrocephalus will frequently develop epilepsy seizures.

Diagnosis of hydrocephalus in babies can be done during regular measurement of baby's head. Baby with abnormal head enlargement is sent for further evaluation. CT scan of the brain is the most useful tool to diagnose hydrocephalus.

Treatment of hydrocephalus is always by surgical intervention. Drainage system (shunt) is inserted into brain ventricles in order to bypass the flow obstruction and to drain the fluid at proper rate into other body cavities. 

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