Types and Causes
of Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a complex, chronic condition that can develop for a variety of reasons.

Hydrocephalus is a complex, chronic condition that can develop for a variety of reasons, sometimes as part of another condition. You can be born with it or acquire it from brain tumors, infections of the brain or a brain injury. It may also develop it as part of the aging process.

Congenital Hydrocephalus

This form is present at birth and results from a complex mix of genetic and environmental factors during fetal development. It is often diagnosed before birth through routine ultrasounds.

Acquired Hydrocephalus

This type develops after birth, typically due to a neurological condition or trauma affecting the brain.

Compensated (Arrested) Hydrocephalus

In this form, hydrocephalus may have been present at birth and possibly treated early, but it remains stable and asymptomatic for many years.

Communicating and Non-Communicating Hydrocephalus

These terms describe where the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow is blocked in the brain. A doctor may use them to explain the specific type of hydrocephalus.

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)

Most commonly seen in adults, aged 60 or over. NPH is a build up of CSF in the brain's ventricles. This causes the ventricles to become enlarged, sometimes with little or no increase in intracranial pressure (ICP).

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