Hydrocephalus Flashcards
Build up of CSF in the head/brain
Hydrocephalus
Where do CSF normally flow
Ventricles of the brain
It serves as a nutrient delivery and waste removal system of brain and protect brain from injury
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Excess fluid in the brain can cause
brain damage and increase intracranial pressure
Flow of the CSF
Is formed in the first and second ventricles of the brain and passes through the aqueduct of sylvius and the fourth ventricle to empty into the subarachnoid space of the spinal cord where it is absorbed.
An excess of CSF in the ventricles or the subarachnoid space
Hydrocephalus
Other causes of skull enlargement
If cranial sutures are not firmly knitted
Types of Hydrocephalus
Communicating or Extraventricular Hydrocephalus and Noncommunicating or Obstructive or Intraventricular Hydrocephalus
A type of hydrocephalus where the fluid can reach the spinal cord and ventricles are open
Communicating or Extraventricular Hydrocephalus
A type of hydrocephalus where there is a block to passage fluid
Noncommunicating or Obstructive or Intraventricular Hydrocephalus
It occurs at birth
Congenital Hydrocephalus
It occurs from an incident later in life
Acquired Hydrocephalus
Causes of hydrocephalus
Unknown
overproduction of fluid
obstruction of the passage of fluid
Interference with the absorption of the CSF from the subarachnoid space if the portion if removed
Assessment
Excess fluid accumulates and dilates the system above the point of obstruction
Fontanelles are widen and tensed
Separate suture lines
Enlarged head diameter
Shiny Scalp and prominent veins
Brow bulges (bossing)
Sunset eyes
Signs of Increase Intracranial Pressure
Decrease pulse and respiration
Increased temperature and BP
Hyperactive Reflexes
Strabismus and Optic atrophy
Irritable or Lethargic
Fail to thrive
High Pitched Cry
