Getting to know...Hydrocephalus (part 1)

What is hydrocephalus?

The word hydrocephalus is a condition where fluid in the brain builds up to excessive and dangerous amounts. Hydrocephalus comes from the Greek words “hydro”, meaning water, and “cephalus”, meaning head. This brain fluid is called cerebrospinal fluid (or CFS for short). CFS is a clear fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. CFS’s main functions are to keep the brain tissue healthy and buoyant by acting as a “shock absorber” and deliver nutrients to the brain and then help remove waste.  

The excessive accumulation of CSF results in an abnormal widening of spaces in the brain called ventricles. This widening creates potentially harmful pressure on the tissues of the brain. Normally, CSF flows through the ventricles, exits into cisterns (closed spaces that serve as reservoirs) at the base of the brain, bathes the surfaces of the brain and spinal cord, and then reabsorbs into the bloodstream.

The balance between production and absorption of CSF is very important. Because CSF is made continuously, any medical condition that prohibits or hinders the re-absorption and dissolution of CFS, like hydrocephalus, will result in painful pressure of the fluid against the brain tissue. 

What are the different types of hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus is either congenital or acquired. Congenital hydrocephalus, meaning it is present at birth, may be caused by either events or influences that occur during fetal development, or genetic abnormalities. Acquired hydrocephalus, meaning the condition develops over time or later in life, can affect people at any age and may be caused by injury or disease, such as head trauma, infection, tumors, or surgical complications.

Hydrocephalus may also be communicating or non-communicating. Communicating hydrocephalus occurs when the flow of CSF is blocked after it exits the ventricles. This form is called communicating because the CSF can still flow between the ventricles, which remain open. Non-communicating hydrocephalus - also called "obstructive" hydrocephalus - occurs when the flow of CSF is blocked along one or more of the narrow passages connecting the ventricles. One of the most common causes of hydrocephalus is "aqueductal stenosis." In this case, hydrocephalus results from a narrowing of the aqueduct of Sylvius, a small passage between the third and fourth ventricles in the middle of the brain.

Next time, we’ll talk about symptoms, research, and treatments. (p.s. all of this research and information came from medicine.net and hydroassoc.org. Check them out for more info!)

And speaking of things you can do to help….

Have you donated to the RunCarlaRun First Giving Donation Fund yet? 100% of all donations go to the Hydrocephalus Association. We are only at 6% of our goal. LET’S GO PEOPLE! Go HERE to donate NOW!