Hydrocephalus is a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the spaces deep inside your brain (ventricles). As a result of the excess fluid, the ventricles widen and put pressure on the brain tissue. In hydrocephalus, the cycle that allows CSF fluid to flow freely is out of balance and fluid builds up in the ventricles. This buildup can be a result of:
- Blocked flow of CSF in the brain
- Increased production of CSF
- Reduced absorption of CSF
Hydrocephalus is a serious condition that affects children and adults and can cause severe disability or death. Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve your symptoms and prognosis.
Where is cerebrospinal fluid produced?
CSF is a liquid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord. The function of CSF is to:
- Carry away wastes produced by brain cells
- Deliver nutrients to your brain
- Protect your brain and spinal cord against trauma and injury
There are four ventricles, or hollow cavities, inside the brain that continuously make and reabsorb CSF. The cavities connect, allowing CSF to flow freely between them. CSF travels out of the ventricles into the space around the brain and spinal cord (subarachnoid space). The brain absorbs the CSF and transports it to the veins for disposal.
The total volume of CSF turns over about three times every day. This rapid production means that a buildup of CSF in your brain can occur rapidly.
Types of hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus varies based on where the blockage occurs and whether it causes increased pressure in the skull:
- Communicating hydrocephalus: The buildup of CSF occurs due to a blockage in flow outside the ventricles or due to reduced reabsorption. Increased CSF creates elevated pressure inside the ventricles.
- Noncommunicating hydrocephalus: A passage between the ventricles becomes blocked, leading to a buildup of CSF and increased pressure.
- Normal pressure hydrocephalus: There is a slow increase in fluid, which allows the tissues around the ventricles to expand. But pressure in the brain does not increase.
How common is hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus is most common in infants and older adults. Estimates of hydrocephalus range from 88 per 100,000 children to 400 per 100,000 adults over age 80.