Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in or around the brain, which can enlarge the ventricles and affect brain function.
When to get help quickly: Hydrocephalus can be urgent if there is severe headache, repeated vomiting, drowsiness, worsening confusion, seizures, a bulging soft spot in a baby, or sudden shunt-related symptoms.
Common symptoms
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.
When imaging helps
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.
What radiology does
CT and MRI help show ventricular enlargement, possible blockage, and treatment response after procedures such as shunt placement.
What usually happens next
Treatment may include shunts, endoscopic procedures, and management of the underlying cause when identified.
Seen this on your report?
Your doctor or the radiologist who wrote it can tell you what it means for you.
Related articles
Related scan guides
- CT BrainA CT Brain scan is one of the most commonly performed neuroimaging procedures in Radiology. It uses X-rays and computer processing to create highly detailed images of the brain and skull.
- Brain MRIA Brain MRI provides detailed images of the brain and surrounding structures without using any radiation. Doctors often request it to investigate persistent headaches, dizziness, seizures, memory problems, or post-trauma vision disturbances.
- Neonatal Cranial UltrasoundA neonatal cranial ultrasound is a safe, radiation-free scan used to examine the brain of newborn babies. It is performed by scanning through the baby's soft spot (fontanelle) to check for bleeding or developmental issues.