What increases a child's risk
for hydrocephalus?
Infections in the mother during
pregnancy caused by bacteria or
a virus
Problems during the growth of
the fetus that may cause defects
in the brain
Head injuries or trauma
Infections in the brain and its
coverings
Prematurity (being born too
early), which may increase his
risk for bleeding in the brain
Tumors that may decrease or
block the flow of CSF
Types of Hydrocephalus Hydrocephalus
Obstructive (non-
communicating) hydrocephalus "Water on the Brain"
is caused by a blockage in the
system of cavities (ventricles) in
the brain. The blockage prevents
the cerebrospinal fluid from
flowing (or "communicating") with
the area that surrounds the brain
and spinal cord (subarachnoid
space), as it normally should.
Blockages can be present at birth
or can occur later.
Non-obstructive (communicating) Hydrocephalus is an abnormal
hydrocephalus results from problems buildup of fluid in the ventricles
with cerebrospinal fluid being (cavities) deep within the brain.
produced or absorbed. One of the
most common causes is bleeding into A condition in which there is extra
the subarachnoid space. cerebrospinal fluid around the brain
Communicating hydrocephalus can and spinal cord. Cerebrospinal fluid
be present at birth or can occur later. acts as a cushion for the brain and
spinal cord, supplies nutrients, and
takes away waste products.
Bea Flor Rapisura-Pegad
BSN IV-A
 Symptoms: Prevention:
A large head that is growing ---wear appropriate protective gear
too rapidly when participating in contact sports or
A bulging "soft spot" on top other activities, such as skiing, riding a
of head (anterior fontanelle) bike and sledding, with a risk of head
Irritability trauma.
Seizures --if pregnant, have a frequent check up
Delays in development for fetal monitoring, and reduce the
risk of premature birth.

Diagnosis
--Neuro Exams
Treatment: --Brain Imaging(such as MRI, CT-
Surgery: Scan,Ultrasound
Shunt placement helps
drain extra CSF fluid
through a tube from your
child's brain into his
abdomen where it is
absorbed.
Ventriculostomy helps drain
the extra CSF fluid through a
small hole in your child's
brain.
Medicines may help decrease
the swelling your child's brain
or treat a bacterial infection.
(Furosemide and antibiotics