Hydrocephalus is both a serious condition, and one which you may very well have never heard of. That is why the awareness-raising work which takes place on World Hydrocephalus Day really makes a big impact. This event takes place worldwide, annually, on 20th September. This blog will take a look at what hydrocephalus is, and how it is treated.

What is Hydrocephalus?

First and foremost, what actually is this condition, and what does the name mean? The condition’s actual name comes from two ancient Greek words. Those are “hydro” which means “water,” and “cephalus” meaning “head”.

Hydrocephalus is a chronic neurological condition caused by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the cavities (ventricles) of the brain. It happens when there is an imbalance between the amount of CSF produced and the rate at which it is absorbed. As the CSF builds up, it causes the ventricles to enlarge, putting increased pressure on the brain. It can develop at any age, from new-born to elderly. Given the nature of the illness – that the effects are focused on the brain – it can be life-threatening.

Is There a Cure for Hydrocephalus?

This relatively rare condition does not have a cure. It is also important to note that, whilst hydrocephalus may not be common in relative terms, in absolute terms, it has a huge number of sufferers. According to the organisers of World Hydrocephalus Day, around 400,000 children annually are diagnosed with the condition. Additionally, an estimated 8 million elderly people worldwide live with it.

Whilst there is not currently a cure, treatments are available. These will generally be one option of three surgical intervention procedures.

Hydrocephalus Treatment Options

The most common form of treatment for hydrocephalus uses a medical device called a “shunt”. A shunt is a flexible tube inserted into the body. The aim of inserting a shunt is to divert the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to other parts of the body, where it can be absorbed.

There is a second, less common treatment option available. Again, it is a surgical procedure. This is endoscopic third ventriculostomy (or ETV for short). This procedure creates a small opening in the brain’s ventricular system. Once this opening is created, excess fluid can be drained. The main advantage of ETV is that it avoids the need for a shunt implantation. This is because it provides the body with a natural internal pathway through which CSF can flow and be reabsorbed.

Finally, one treatment option combines ETV with a surgical procedure. This procedure is known as choroid plexus cauterization (CPC for short). The procedure reduces the choroid plexus. That is the name given to the tissue which produces CSF in two of the brains four ventricles. This combination decreases the amount of fluid produced. It may also reduce the strength of pulses that can cause the ventricles to enlarge. By doing so, pressure on the brain is relieved.

Hopefully this piece has been informative. If you’d like to learn more about hydrocephalus, you can, by following this link.