Pathology - Raised ICP, Lesions and Trauma Flashcards
what is hydrocephalus?
accumulation of excessive CSF within the ventricular system of the brain
what are the three mechanisms that can cause hydrocephalus?
obstruction of flow of CSF
decreased resorption of CSF
overproduction of CSF
what are the two types of hydrocephalus?
non communicating
communicating
what is non communicating hydrocephalus?
obstruction to flow of CSF occurs within the ventricular system
what is communicating hydrocephalus?
obstruction to flow of CSF occurs outside of the ventricular system
when can hydrocephalus cause cranial enlargemnet?
if it occurs before the cranial sutures close
what does hydrocephalus cause if occurring after closure of the cranial sutures?
expansion of ventricles
increase in ICP
what is hydrocephalus ex vacuo?
dilatation of ventricular system and a compensatory increase in CSF volume secondary to a loss of brain parenchyma
name a disease that can cause hydrocephalus ex vacuo
alzheimer’s
where are the most common sites for metastases to the brain?
breast bronchus kidney thyroid colon skin
what are the four grades of astrocytoma?
1 - pilocytic
2 - well differentiated
3 - anaplastic
4 - glioblastoma
what is the most common brain tumour in children?
medulloblastoma
where are medulloblastomas located?
the midline of the cerebellum
how are medulloblastomas managed?
resection
radiotherapy
what is a common complication of medulloblastoma?
disrupt flow of CSF leading to hydrocephalus
