Hydrocephalus

Dropsy of the brain

Dropsy (hydrocephalus) of the brain is a pathological condition that occurs when there is excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain and an increase in its volume.

CSF is a clear fluid in the cranial cavity that bathes the brain and protects it from shock. It is formed as a result of the absorption of fluid and the transformation of its water through metabolism in the brain tissue. The function of cerebrospinal fluid is mainly to protect against concussions and mechanical damage to the brain, the formation of intracranial pressure, and the protection of cerebral structures from overloads and irritants.

Causes of the disease During the development of dropsy, due to a decrease in the production of cerebrospinal fluid or disturbances in its penetration, either excessive accumulation occurs, or the normal circulation of cerebrospinal fluid is reduced. Cerebrospinal fluid is retained in the cavities of the skull and/or displaced, which leads to dilation of the ventricles of the brain, possibly including the subarachnoid space. Along with a decrease in the intensity of cerebrospinal fluid production, an increase in its production may occur. This is a reaction to tumors, inflammatory or