Childhood Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a neurological disorder in which there is excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain. It may be caused by a birth defect, hemorrhage, viral infection, meningitis, a tumor, or head injury.

Most forms of hydrocephalus are the result of obstructed CSF flow in the ventricular system.

In infants, the most obvious symptom is an abnormally large head. Other symptoms include vomiting, sleepiness, irritability, an inability to look upwards, and seizures.

In older children symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting and, sometimes, blurred vision. There may be problems with balance, delayed development in walking or talking, and poor coordination. Irritability, fatigue, seizures, and personality changes such as an inability to concentrate or remember things may also develop. Lethargy, drowsiness and double vision are common symptoms as hydrocephalus progresses.

Due to the multiple disorders and/or conditions resulting in the development of hydrocephalus, there is rarely a permanent cure. The most effective treatment is the surgical insertion of a shunt-a flexible, artificial tube-into the ventricular system of the brain to divert the flow of CSF into another area of the body, where the CSF can drain and be absorbed into the bloodstream.

The prognosis of hydrocephalus is determined by the cause, the presence or absence of associated anomalies, and the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. Many children treated for hydrocephalus are able to lead normal lives with few, if any, limitations. In some cases, cognitive impairments in language and non-language function may occur. Occasionally, problems with shunts such as infection or malfunction will necessitate additional surgery.

Information provided by the
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke,
National Institutes of Health

Each year, Medical College of Wisconsin physicians care for more than 180,000 patients, representing nearly 500,000 patient visits. Medical College physicians practice at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, and many other hospitals and clinics in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin.