What is?

HYDROCEPHALUS

Hydrocephalus is an abnormal (excessive) accumulation of fluid in the head.

SYMPTOMS
Symptoms vary
depending on the
individual’s age and
the type of hydrocephalus.
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DIAGNOSIS
Doctors use
a range of techniques
including scans and CSF analysis
to confirm hydrocephalus.
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TREATMENT
All treatments are
surgical and aim
to control the drainage
of excess cerebrospinal fluid.
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COMPLICATIONS
Following treatment
it is vital to stay alert
for any signs that symptoms
may be returning.
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Types of
HYDROCEPHALUS

NPH

Normal-pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), sometimes called idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH), usually affects older people, and often occurs gradually, making it harder to identify. The build-up of CSF enlarges the ventricles in the brain but does so with little or no increase in intracranial pressure. 

ACQUIRED

Acquired hydrocephalus can happen to children or adults of any age and, depending on the cause, may be temporary. It most often occurs after a traumatic event like a brain injury that releases blood into the CSF and increases intracranial pressure (ICP) It can also follow a stroke, an infection such as meningitis or be the result of a brain tumour. 

CONGENITAL

Congenital hydrocephalus is caused by a brain malformation that can happen to babies during their development in the womb. Most often, it creates an obstruction of the cerebral aqueduct. This prevents cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from draining correctly and increases damaging pressure on the brain.

Answers you may be looking for

SHUNT
PASSPORT

CENTRE LOCATOR

LIVING WITH
HYDROCEPHALUS

Centre Locator

If you have a shunt implant and are planning to travel or be away from home, use this Locator to find expert centres equipped to manage your Codman Hakim Medos or Certas Plus adjustable shunt valve.

Your doctor will provide you with details on your shunt implant. If your shunt has another type of valve, ask your regular centre for advice on other suitable centres before you travel.

The sponsors of this site do not recommend any expert centre, treatment or device. Patients must always seek the advice of their doctor.

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