715.832.1700

Dr. Kamal Thapar, MD., PhD., FRCSC., FAANS
1200 Oakleaf Way, Suite A, Altoona, WI 54720

Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain. Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear liquid that surrounds the spinal cord and brain and acts as a protective barrier or cushion. An excess of this fluid causes increased pressure in the brain.

Causes:

– Genetic abnormalities such as spina bifida

– Intraventricular hemorrhage (bleeding into the interconnected, fluid-filled spaces in the brain)

– Brain tumors

– Head injuries

– Meningitis

Symptoms:

– Headache

– Nausea and/or vomiting

– Visual changes

– Difficulty with walking and feeling off balance

– Change in personality

– Memory loss

Diagnosis:

Various imaging studies may be needed to confirm the diagnosis of hydrocephalus and to identify the cause and extent of fluid accumulation including. These would include a CT scan of the head and an MRI of the brain.

Treatment:

Treatment for hydrocephalus is dependent on the cause, the amount of fluid accumulated and the overall health of the patient. A device called a shunt may be necessary to remove the excess fluid from the brain if the pressure in the brain is reaching an unsafe level.