Hydrocephalus General

General hydrocephalus: understanding, causes and treatment

Common hydrocephalus, also known as generalized hydrocephalus, is a serious neurological disorder characterized by the accumulation of excess fluid within the cranial cavity. This condition can occur at any age and has various causes that require immediate intervention and treatment.

General hydrocephalus develops due to improper formation, circulation, or resorption of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. Usually it gradually circulates and resolves, maintaining stable pressure inside the cranial cavity. However, if this balance is disrupted, the accumulation of CSF leads to increased volume of the cranial cavity and increased pressure on the brain.

The causes of general hydrocephalus can be varied. This may be the result of congenital abnormalities such as fetal neurodevelopmental disorders or genetic defects. Hydrocephalus can also develop as a result of infections, tumors, head injuries, or bleeding in the brain. In some cases, the cause of hydrocephalus remains unknown.

Symptoms of general hydrocephalus may vary depending on age and the degree of development of the disorder. Children with hydrocephalus may experience an enlarged head, irritability, sleep disturbances, lethargy, developmental delays, seizures, and feeding problems. Adults with hydrocephalus may experience headaches, nausea, vomiting, changes in vision, and problems with coordination, memory, and thinking.

Various methods are used to diagnose general hydrocephalus, including neuroimaging such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). These techniques allow doctors to visualize the structure of the brain and determine the presence of CSF collections.

Treatment for general hydrocephalus depends on the cause and extent of the disorder. In some cases, surgery may be required to create additional flow of CSF or to install a shunt, a special device that helps regulate the circulation of CSF. Patients with hydrocephalus require long-term observation and regular consultations with a neurologist to assess the effectiveness of treatment and monitor the condition.

In some cases, general hydrocephalus may be incurable or present significant difficulties in treatment. In such situations, it is important to provide supportive therapy and care to improve the patient's quality of life. This may include physiotherapy, speech therapy, rehabilitation and psychological support.

Prevention of general hydrocephalus can be difficult, since the causes of this condition are not always known and are not always preventable. However, preventing infections and head injuries, as well as regular medical examinations and consultations, are important for early detection and treatment of any potential problems.

General hydrocephalus is a serious neurological disorder that requires careful medical monitoring and treatment. Modern diagnostic and surgical methods can significantly improve the prognosis and quality of life of patients. However, each case of hydrocephalus is unique, and treatment must be individualized, taking into account the characteristics of each patient. Further research and development of new treatment methods will help reduce possible complications and improve the prognosis of this condition.