Hydrocephalus is the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in or around the brain, which can enlarge the ventricles and affect brain function.
Symptoms vary by age and can include a rapidly growing head in infants, vomiting, headaches, sleepiness, developmental concerns, walking difficulty, bladder problems, or changes in thinking and balance.
Imaging helps when symptoms suggest raised pressure or abnormal fluid flow, and it is also important when doctors are checking for blockage, monitoring ventricles, or assessing a shunt.
CT and MRI help show ventricular enlargement, possible blockage, and treatment response after procedures such as shunt placement.
Treatment may include shunts, endoscopic procedures, and management of the underlying cause when identified.
This entry explains the condition. The next step is having a radiologist interpret your specific scan, not a general definition.
