Hydrocephalus is a condition where there is excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain, resulting in increased pressure on brain tissues. It occurs when there is an imbalance between the production and absorption of CSF, blocking its flow. Symptoms vary depending on age but can include headache, nausea, vision issues. It is diagnosed using brain imaging and treated primarily by surgically inserting a shunt to drain CSF out of the brain. Prognosis depends on cause and treatment success, though many children with hydrocephalus can lead normal lives with treatment.
Intracerebral hemorhage Diagnosis and managementRamesh Babu
About ICH - Diagnosis and management, Discussed the clinical presentation, evaluation, radiological features and management including recent guidelines
Hemiparesis is unilateral paresis, that is, weakness of the entire left or right side of the body (hemi- means "half"). Hemiplegia is, in its most severe form, complete paralysis of half of the body. Hemiparesis and hemiplegia can be caused by different medical conditions, including congenital causes, trauma, tumors, or stroke
Hypenension: Commonest cause of intracerebral haemorrhage.
Rupture of an intracranial aneurysm, angioma or A-V malformation: commonest cause of subarachnoid haemorrhage.
Haemorrhagic blood diseases: purpura, haemophilia.
Anticoagulants.
Trauma to the head: commonest of subdural haematoma.
II. Infective: ;
Encephalitis
Meningitis – Brain abscess.
III. Neoplastic: e.g. Meningioma.
IV. Demyelination: multiple sclerosis may present with hemiplegia.
V. Traumatic: e.g. Cerebral laceration and subdural haematoma.
VI. Hysterical: patient suffering from paralysis in the absence of organic lesion.
This ppt describes various movement disorders found commonly in elderly persons. It also describes hyper and hypokinetic disorder categorization with cause and pathophysiology of movement disorders.
Intracerebral hemorhage Diagnosis and managementRamesh Babu
About ICH - Diagnosis and management, Discussed the clinical presentation, evaluation, radiological features and management including recent guidelines
Hemiparesis is unilateral paresis, that is, weakness of the entire left or right side of the body (hemi- means "half"). Hemiplegia is, in its most severe form, complete paralysis of half of the body. Hemiparesis and hemiplegia can be caused by different medical conditions, including congenital causes, trauma, tumors, or stroke
Hypenension: Commonest cause of intracerebral haemorrhage.
Rupture of an intracranial aneurysm, angioma or A-V malformation: commonest cause of subarachnoid haemorrhage.
Haemorrhagic blood diseases: purpura, haemophilia.
Anticoagulants.
Trauma to the head: commonest of subdural haematoma.
II. Infective: ;
Encephalitis
Meningitis – Brain abscess.
III. Neoplastic: e.g. Meningioma.
IV. Demyelination: multiple sclerosis may present with hemiplegia.
V. Traumatic: e.g. Cerebral laceration and subdural haematoma.
VI. Hysterical: patient suffering from paralysis in the absence of organic lesion.
This ppt describes various movement disorders found commonly in elderly persons. It also describes hyper and hypokinetic disorder categorization with cause and pathophysiology of movement disorders.
Hydrocephalous is a serious disease of the central nervous system which has both congenital and aquired subtypes. the congenital variety affects the children and is a considerable burden especially is the developing countries. I tleads to long term morbidity and high rates of mortality
Slideshows on febrile seizures.. Simple and basic details available. For medical students, housemen and training doctors who wish to revise on the topic.
Effective treatment for hydrocephalus in Mindheal Homeopathy clinic ,Chembur...Shewta shetty
"Treatment and remedies for hydrocephalus find its effective homeopathy treatment.Personalised online consultancy & treatments provided at our clinic by efficient panel of doctors in our center at mumbai,Bombay,Chembur, India.Contact us
Effective treatment for hydrocephalus in Mindheal Homeopathy clinic ,Chembur...Shewta shetty
"Hydrocephalus-In this condition there is excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. It results in the abnormal widening of spaces in the brain called ventricles. This widening causes harmful pressure on the tissue of the brain. Mindheal homeopathy boosts the immune system and provides effective treatment in the case of Hydrocephalus"/>
Hydrocephalus Surgery: Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy for HydrocephalusP Nagpal
Hydrocephalus Surgery, Hydrocephalus Surgery India, Hydrocephalus Surgery Cost In India Info On Cost Hydrocephalus Surgery Mumbai Delhi Bangalore India, Hydrocephalus Surgery Hospitals Clinic India, Hydrocephalus Surgery Doctor Surgeon India, Hydrocephalus Surgery Center India
Hydrocephalus is a disease that occurs in the human brain. When excess cerebrospinal fluid or CSF collects in the ventricles of the brain, the situation is called Hydrocephalus.
Hydrocephalus by aram mustafa & Narnj wasman & Daroon Abdulrahmanaram mustafa
Introduction Of Hydrocephalus
Cause Of Hydrocephalus
Signs and Symptoms Of Hydrocephalus
Diagnosis Of Hydrocephalus
Possible Complications Of Hydrocephalus?
Diagnostic tests
Treatment
Shunt surgery
The operation
Hydrocephalus is the buildup of fluid in the cavities (ventricles) deep within the brain. The excess fluid increases the size of the ventricles and puts pressure on the brain.
Hydrocephalus,Its Causes, Types, Symptoms,Treatment, Neuroanatomy, CSF, Ventricles,Foramens, Cerebrospinal fluid,NPH,Communicating, non communicating,Obstructive, non Obstructive,Hydrocephalus triad,Shunts and their types, av Shunt, vp Shunt
Information from Kelley Whisler: Sean is my nephew, he and his twin sister Kaitlyn were born 10 weeks premature. He has Cerebral Palsy due to brain trauma at birth (like having a stroke on both sides of his brain) and acidosis due to his heart not converting to self-sufficiency at birth (PDA non-closure / therefore not enough oxygen in blood to brain/body). He also has some vision disability, due to ROP (retinopathy of prematurity - retina did not fully develop) as well as the stroke affected the vision area of his brain, which makes it hard for him to process what he does see. My sister made this powerpoint for me to share with my students as they have taken both Sean & Kaitlyn into their hearts, and they have wanted to know and understand what was happening with them.
Flu Vaccine Alert in Bangalore Karnatakaaddon Scans
As flu season approaches, health officials in Bangalore, Karnataka, are urging residents to get their flu vaccinations. The seasonal flu, while common, can lead to severe health complications, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.
Dr. Vidisha Kumari, a leading epidemiologist in Bangalore, emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated. "The flu vaccine is our best defense against the influenza virus. It not only protects individuals but also helps prevent the spread of the virus in our communities," he says.
This year, the flu season is expected to coincide with a potential increase in other respiratory illnesses. The Karnataka Health Department has launched an awareness campaign highlighting the significance of flu vaccinations. They have set up multiple vaccination centers across Bangalore, making it convenient for residents to receive their shots.
To encourage widespread vaccination, the government is also collaborating with local schools, workplaces, and community centers to facilitate vaccination drives. Special attention is being given to ensuring that the vaccine is accessible to all, including marginalized communities who may have limited access to healthcare.
Residents are reminded that the flu vaccine is safe and effective. Common side effects are mild and may include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or muscle aches. These side effects are generally short-lived and far less severe than the flu itself.
Healthcare providers are also stressing the importance of continuing COVID-19 precautions. Wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining social distancing are still crucial, especially in crowded places.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting vaccinated. Together, we can help keep Bangalore healthy and safe this flu season. For more information on vaccination centers and schedules, residents can visit the Karnataka Health Department’s official website or follow their social media pages.
Stay informed, stay safe, and get your flu shot today!
HOT NEW PRODUCT! BIG SALES FAST SHIPPING NOW FROM CHINA!! EU KU DB BK substit...GL Anaacs
Contact us if you are interested:
Email / Skype : kefaya1771@gmail.com
Threema: PXHY5PDH
New BATCH Ku !!! MUCH IN DEMAND FAST SALE EVERY BATCH HAPPY GOOD EFFECT BIG BATCH !
Contact me on Threema or skype to start big business!!
Hot-sale products:
NEW HOT EUTYLONE WHITE CRYSTAL!!
5cl-adba precursor (semi finished )
5cl-adba raw materials
ADBB precursor (semi finished )
ADBB raw materials
APVP powder
5fadb/4f-adb
Jwh018 / Jwh210
Eutylone crystal
Protonitazene (hydrochloride) CAS: 119276-01-6
Flubrotizolam CAS: 57801-95-3
Metonitazene CAS: 14680-51-4
Payment terms: Western Union,MoneyGram,Bitcoin or USDT.
Deliver Time: Usually 7-15days
Shipping method: FedEx, TNT, DHL,UPS etc.Our deliveries are 100% safe, fast, reliable and discreet.
Samples will be sent for your evaluation!If you are interested in, please contact me, let's talk details.
We specializes in exporting high quality Research chemical, medical intermediate, Pharmaceutical chemicals and so on. Products are exported to USA, Canada, France, Korea, Japan,Russia, Southeast Asia and other countries.
Title: Sense of Taste
Presenter: Dr. Faiza, Assistant Professor of Physiology
Qualifications:
MBBS (Best Graduate, AIMC Lahore)
FCPS Physiology
ICMT, CHPE, DHPE (STMU)
MPH (GC University, Faisalabad)
MBA (Virtual University of Pakistan)
Learning Objectives:
Describe the structure and function of taste buds.
Describe the relationship between the taste threshold and taste index of common substances.
Explain the chemical basis and signal transduction of taste perception for each type of primary taste sensation.
Recognize different abnormalities of taste perception and their causes.
Key Topics:
Significance of Taste Sensation:
Differentiation between pleasant and harmful food
Influence on behavior
Selection of food based on metabolic needs
Receptors of Taste:
Taste buds on the tongue
Influence of sense of smell, texture of food, and pain stimulation (e.g., by pepper)
Primary and Secondary Taste Sensations:
Primary taste sensations: Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter, Umami
Chemical basis and signal transduction mechanisms for each taste
Taste Threshold and Index:
Taste threshold values for Sweet (sucrose), Salty (NaCl), Sour (HCl), and Bitter (Quinine)
Taste index relationship: Inversely proportional to taste threshold
Taste Blindness:
Inability to taste certain substances, particularly thiourea compounds
Example: Phenylthiocarbamide
Structure and Function of Taste Buds:
Composition: Epithelial cells, Sustentacular/Supporting cells, Taste cells, Basal cells
Features: Taste pores, Taste hairs/microvilli, and Taste nerve fibers
Location of Taste Buds:
Found in papillae of the tongue (Fungiform, Circumvallate, Foliate)
Also present on the palate, tonsillar pillars, epiglottis, and proximal esophagus
Mechanism of Taste Stimulation:
Interaction of taste substances with receptors on microvilli
Signal transduction pathways for Umami, Sweet, Bitter, Sour, and Salty tastes
Taste Sensitivity and Adaptation:
Decrease in sensitivity with age
Rapid adaptation of taste sensation
Role of Saliva in Taste:
Dissolution of tastants to reach receptors
Washing away the stimulus
Taste Preferences and Aversions:
Mechanisms behind taste preference and aversion
Influence of receptors and neural pathways
Impact of Sensory Nerve Damage:
Degeneration of taste buds if the sensory nerve fiber is cut
Abnormalities of Taste Detection:
Conditions: Ageusia, Hypogeusia, Dysgeusia (parageusia)
Causes: Nerve damage, neurological disorders, infections, poor oral hygiene, adverse drug effects, deficiencies, aging, tobacco use, altered neurotransmitter levels
Neurotransmitters and Taste Threshold:
Effects of serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) on taste sensitivity
Supertasters:
25% of the population with heightened sensitivity to taste, especially bitterness
Increased number of fungiform papillae
These lecture slides, by Dr Sidra Arshad, offer a quick overview of physiological basis of a normal electrocardiogram.
Learning objectives:
1. Define an electrocardiogram (ECG) and electrocardiography
2. Describe how dipoles generated by the heart produce the waveforms of the ECG
3. Describe the components of a normal electrocardiogram of a typical bipolar leads (limb II)
4. Differentiate between intervals and segments
5. Enlist some common indications for obtaining an ECG
Study Resources:
1. Chapter 11, Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology, 14th edition
2. Chapter 9, Human Physiology - From Cells to Systems, Lauralee Sherwood, 9th edition
3. Chapter 29, Ganong’s Review of Medical Physiology, 26th edition
4. Electrocardiogram, StatPearls - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549803/
5. ECG in Medical Practice by ABM Abdullah, 4th edition
6. ECG Basics, http://www.nataliescasebook.com/tag/e-c-g-basics
These simplified slides by Dr. Sidra Arshad present an overview of the non-respiratory functions of the respiratory tract.
Learning objectives:
1. Enlist the non-respiratory functions of the respiratory tract
2. Briefly explain how these functions are carried out
3. Discuss the significance of dead space
4. Differentiate between minute ventilation and alveolar ventilation
5. Describe the cough and sneeze reflexes
Study Resources:
1. Chapter 39, Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology, 14th edition
2. Chapter 34, Ganong’s Review of Medical Physiology, 26th edition
3. Chapter 17, Human Physiology by Lauralee Sherwood, 9th edition
4. Non-respiratory functions of the lungs https://academic.oup.com/bjaed/article/13/3/98/278874
TEST BANK for Operations Management, 14th Edition by William J. Stevenson, Ve...kevinkariuki227
TEST BANK for Operations Management, 14th Edition by William J. Stevenson, Verified Chapters 1 - 19, Complete Newest Version.pdf
TEST BANK for Operations Management, 14th Edition by William J. Stevenson, Verified Chapters 1 - 19, Complete Newest Version.pdf
MANAGEMENT OF ATRIOVENTRICULAR CONDUCTION BLOCK.pdfJim Jacob Roy
Cardiac conduction defects can occur due to various causes.
Atrioventricular conduction blocks ( AV blocks ) are classified into 3 types.
This document describes the acute management of AV block.
Couples presenting to the infertility clinic- Do they really have infertility...Sujoy Dasgupta
Dr Sujoy Dasgupta presented the study on "Couples presenting to the infertility clinic- Do they really have infertility? – The unexplored stories of non-consummation" in the 13th Congress of the Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE 2024) at Manila on 24 May, 2024.
New Directions in Targeted Therapeutic Approaches for Older Adults With Mantl...i3 Health
i3 Health is pleased to make the speaker slides from this activity available for use as a non-accredited self-study or teaching resource.
This slide deck presented by Dr. Kami Maddocks, Professor-Clinical in the Division of Hematology and
Associate Division Director for Ambulatory Operations
The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, will provide insight into new directions in targeted therapeutic approaches for older adults with mantle cell lymphoma.
STATEMENT OF NEED
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare, aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) accounting for 5% to 7% of all lymphomas. Its prognosis ranges from indolent disease that does not require treatment for years to very aggressive disease, which is associated with poor survival (Silkenstedt et al, 2021). Typically, MCL is diagnosed at advanced stage and in older patients who cannot tolerate intensive therapy (NCCN, 2022). Although recent advances have slightly increased remission rates, recurrence and relapse remain very common, leading to a median overall survival between 3 and 6 years (LLS, 2021). Though there are several effective options, progress is still needed towards establishing an accepted frontline approach for MCL (Castellino et al, 2022). Treatment selection and management of MCL are complicated by the heterogeneity of prognosis, advanced age and comorbidities of patients, and lack of an established standard approach for treatment, making it vital that clinicians be familiar with the latest research and advances in this area. In this activity chaired by Michael Wang, MD, Professor in the Department of Lymphoma & Myeloma at MD Anderson Cancer Center, expert faculty will discuss prognostic factors informing treatment, the promising results of recent trials in new therapeutic approaches, and the implications of treatment resistance in therapeutic selection for MCL.
Target Audience
Hematology/oncology fellows, attending faculty, and other health care professionals involved in the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).
Learning Objectives
1.) Identify clinical and biological prognostic factors that can guide treatment decision making for older adults with MCL
2.) Evaluate emerging data on targeted therapeutic approaches for treatment-naive and relapsed/refractory MCL and their applicability to older adults
3.) Assess mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapies for MCL and their implications for treatment selection
Report Back from SGO 2024: What’s the Latest in Cervical Cancer?bkling
Are you curious about what’s new in cervical cancer research or unsure what the findings mean? Join Dr. Emily Ko, a gynecologic oncologist at Penn Medicine, to learn about the latest updates from the Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) 2024 Annual Meeting on Women’s Cancer. Dr. Ko will discuss what the research presented at the conference means for you and answer your questions about the new developments.
Tom Selleck Health: A Comprehensive Look at the Iconic Actor’s Wellness Journeygreendigital
Tom Selleck, an enduring figure in Hollywood. has captivated audiences for decades with his rugged charm, iconic moustache. and memorable roles in television and film. From his breakout role as Thomas Magnum in Magnum P.I. to his current portrayal of Frank Reagan in Blue Bloods. Selleck's career has spanned over 50 years. But beyond his professional achievements. fans have often been curious about Tom Selleck Health. especially as he has aged in the public eye.
Follow us on: Pinterest
Introduction
Many have been interested in Tom Selleck health. not only because of his enduring presence on screen but also because of the challenges. and lifestyle choices he has faced and made over the years. This article delves into the various aspects of Tom Selleck health. exploring his fitness regimen, diet, mental health. and the challenges he has encountered as he ages. We'll look at how he maintains his well-being. the health issues he has faced, and his approach to ageing .
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Athletic Beginnings
Tom Selleck was born on January 29, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in Sherman Oaks, California. From an early age, he was involved in sports, particularly basketball. which played a significant role in his physical development. His athletic pursuits continued into college. where he attended the University of Southern California (USC) on a basketball scholarship. This early involvement in sports laid a strong foundation for his physical health and disciplined lifestyle.
Transition to Acting
Selleck's transition from an athlete to an actor came with its physical demands. His first significant role in "Magnum P.I." required him to perform various stunts and maintain a fit appearance. This role, which he played from 1980 to 1988. necessitated a rigorous fitness routine to meet the show's demands. setting the stage for his long-term commitment to health and wellness.
Fitness Regimen
Workout Routine
Tom Selleck health and fitness regimen has evolved. adapting to his changing roles and age. During his "Magnum, P.I." days. Selleck's workouts were intense and focused on building and maintaining muscle mass. His routine included weightlifting, cardiovascular exercises. and specific training for the stunts he performed on the show.
Selleck adjusted his fitness routine as he aged to suit his body's needs. Today, his workouts focus on maintaining flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. He incorporates low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and light weightlifting. This balanced approach helps him stay fit without putting undue strain on his joints and muscles.
Importance of Flexibility and Mobility
In recent years, Selleck has emphasized the importance of flexibility and mobility in his fitness regimen. Understanding the natural decline in muscle mass and joint flexibility with age. he includes stretching and yoga in his routine. These practices help prevent injuries, improve posture, and maintain mobilit
2. #What is hydrocephalus ?
The term hydrocephalus is derived from the Greek
words "hydro" meaning water and "cephalus" meaning
head. As the name implies, it is a condition in which
the primary characteristic is excessive accumulation of
fluid in the brain. Although hydrocephalus was once
known as "water on the brain," the "water" is actually
cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)--a clear fluid that surrounds
the brain and spinal cord. The excessive accumulation
of CSF results in an abnormal widening of spaces in
the brain called ventricles. This widening creates
potentially harmful pressure on the tissues of the
brain.
3.
4. The ventricular system is made up of four ventricles
connected by narrow passages.. Normally, CSF flows
through the ventricles, exits into cisterns (closed
spaces that serve as reservoirs) at the base of the brain,
bathes the surfaces of the brain and spinal cord, and
then reabsorbs into the bloodstream.
5. CSF has three important life-sustaining functions: 1) to
keep the brain tissue buoyant, acting as a cushion or "shock
absorber"; 2) to act as the vehicle for delivering nutrients to
the brain and removing waste; and 3) to flow between the
cranium and spine and compensate for changes in
intracranial blood volume (the amount of blood within the
brain).
The balance between production and absorption of CSF is
critically important. Because CSF is made continuously,
medical conditions that block its normal flow or
absorption will result in an over-accumulation of CSF. The
resulting pressure of the fluid against brain tissue is what
causes hydrocephalus.
6. #Typeses of hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus may be congenital or acquired.
Congenital hydrocephalus is present at birth and may
be caused by either events or influences that occur
during fetal development, or genetic abnormalities.
Acquired hydrocephalus develops at the time of birth
or at some point afterward. This type of hydrocephalus
can affect individuals of all ages and may be caused by
injury or disease.
7. Hydrocephalus may also be communicating or non-
communicating.
Communicating hydrocephalus occurs when the flow
of CSF is blocked after it exits the ventricles. This form
is called communicating because the CSF can still flow
between the ventricles, which remain open.
Non-communicating hydrocephalus - also called
"obstructive" hydrocephalus - occurs when the flow of
CSF is blocked along one or more of the narrow
passages connecting the ventricles. One of the most
common causes of hydrocephalus is "aqueductal
stenosis." In this case, hydrocephalus results from a
narrowing of the aqueduct of Sylvius, a small passage
between the third and fourth ventricles in the middle
of the brain.
8. There are two other forms of hydrocephalus which do not
fit exactly into the categories mentioned above and
primarily affect adults: hydrocephalus ex-vacuo and normal
pressure hydrocephalus.
Hydrocephalus ex-vacuo occurs when stroke or traumatic
injury cause damage to the brain. In these cases, brain
tissue may actually shrink. Normal pressure hydrocephalus
can happen to people at any age, but it is most common
among the elderly. It may result from a subarachnoid
hemorrhage, head trauma, infection, tumor, or
complications of surgery. However, many people develop
normal pressure hydrocephalus even when none of these
factors are present for reasons that are unknown.
9. Who gets this hydrocephalus?
The number of people who develop hydrocephalus or
who are currently living with it is difficult to establish
since there is no national registry or database of
people with the condition. However, experts estimate
that hydrocephalus affects approximately 1 in every
500 children.
10. What causes hydrocephalus?
The causes of hydrocephalus are still not well
understood. Hydrocephalus may result from inherited
genetic abnormalities (such as the genetic defect that
causes aqueductal stenosis) or developmental
disorders (such as those associated with neural tube
defects including spina bifida and encephalocele).
Other possible causes include complications of
premature birth such as intraventricular hemorrhage,
diseases such as meningitis, tumors, traumatic head
injury, or subarachnoid hemorrhage, which block the
exit of CSF from the ventricles to the cisterns or
eliminate the passageway for CSF into the cisterns.
11. #Symptoms of hydrocephalus:
Symptoms of hydrocephalus vary with age, disease
progression, and individual differences in tolerance to
the condition. For example, an infant's ability to
compensate for increased CSF pressure and
enlargement of the ventricles differs from an adult's.
The infant skull can expand to accommodate the
buildup of CSF because the sutures (the fibrous joints
that connect the bones of the skull) have not yet
closed.
12. In infancy, the most obvious indication of
hydrocephalus is often a rapid increase in head
circumference or an unusually large head size. Other
symptoms may include vomiting, sleepiness,
irritability, downward deviation of the eyes (also called
"sunsetting"), and seizures.
13. Older children and adults may experience different
symptoms because their skulls cannot expand to
accommodate the buildup of CSF. Symptoms may
include headache followed by vomiting, nausea,
papilledema (swelling of the optic disk which is part of
the optic nerve), blurred or double vision, sunsetting
of the eyes, problems with balance, poor coordination,
gait disturbance, urinary incontinence, slowing or loss
of developmental progress, lethargy, drowsiness,
irritability, or other changes in personality or cognition
including memory loss.
14. Symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus include,
problems with walking, impaired bladder control
leading to urinary frequency and/or incontinence, and
progressive mental impairment and dementia. An
individual with this type of hydrocephalus may have a
general slowing of movements or may complain that
his or her feet feel "stuck." Because some of these
symptoms may also be experienced in other disorders
such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease,
and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, normal pressure
hydrocephalus is often incorrectly diagnosed and
never properly treated
15. Doctors may use a variety of tests, including brain
scans (CT and/or MRI), a spinal tap or lumbar
catheter, intracranial pressure monitoring, and
neuropsychological tests, to help them accurately
diagnose normal pressure hydrocephalus and rule out
any other conditions.
16. The symptoms described in this section account for
the most typical ways in which progressive
hydrocephalus manifests itself, but it is important to
remember that symptoms vary significantly from one
person to the next.
17. Diagnosis:
Hydrocephalus is diagnosed through clinical
neurological evaluation and by using cranial imaging
techniques such as ultrasonography, computed
tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),
or pressure-monitoring techniques. A physician selects
the appropriate diagnostic tool based on an
individual's age, clinical presentation, and the
presence of known or suspected abnormalities of the
brain or spinal cord.
25. Treatment:
Hydrocephalus is most often treated by surgically inserting
a shunt system. This system diverts the flow of CSF from
the CNS to another area of the body where it can be
absorbed as part of the normal circulatory process.
A shunt is a flexible but sturdy plastic tube. A shunt system
consists of the shunt, a catheter, and a valve. One end of
the catheter is placed within a ventricle inside the brain or
in the CSF outside the spinal cord. The other end of the
catheter is commonly placed within the abdominal cavity,
but may also be placed at other sites in the body such as a
chamber of the heart or areas around the lung where the
CSF can drain and be absorbed. A valve located along the
catheter maintains one-way flow and regulates the rate of
CSF flow.
26.
27. A limited number of individuals can be treated with an
alternative procedure called third ventriculostomy. In
this procedure, a neuroendoscope — a small camera
that uses fiber optic technology to visualize small and
difficult to reach surgical areas — allows a doctor to
view the ventricular surface. Once the scope is guided
into position, a small tool makes a tiny hole in the
floor of the third ventricle, which allows the CSF to
bypass the obstruction and flow toward the site of
resorption around the surface of the brain.
29. complications of a shunt system
Shunt systems are not perfect devices. Complications may
include mechanical failure, infections, obstructions, and
the need to lengthen or replace the catheter. Generally,
shunt systems require monitoring and regular medical
follow up. When complications occur, the shunt system
usually requires some type of revision.
Some complications can lead to other problems such as
overdraining or underdraining. Overdraining occurs when
the shunt allows CSF to drain from the ventricles more
quickly than it is produced. Overdraining can cause the
ventricles to collapse, tearing blood vessels and causing
headache, hemorrhage (subdural hematoma), or slit-like
ventricles (slit ventricle syndrome).
30. Underdraining occurs when CSF is not removed
quickly enough and the symptoms of hydrocephalus
recur. In addition to the common symptoms of
hydrocephalus, infections from a shunt may also
produce symptoms such as a low-grade fever, soreness
of the neck or shoulder muscles, and redness or
tenderness along the shunt tract. When there is reason
to suspect that a shunt system is not functioning
properly (for example, if the symptoms of
hydrocephalus return), medical attention should be
sought immediately.
31. Prognosis:
The prognosis for individuals diagnosed with
hydrocephalus is difficult to predict, although there is
some correlation between the specific cause of the
hydrocephalus and the outcome. Prognosis is further
complicated by the presence of associated disorders,
the timeliness of diagnosis, and the success of
treatment. The degree to which relief of CSF pressure
following shunt surgery can minimize or reverse
damage to the brain is not well understood.
32. Affected individuals and their families should be aware
that hydrocephalus poses risks to both cognitive and
physical development. However, many children
diagnosed with the disorder benefit from
rehabilitation therapies and educational interventions
and go on to lead normal lives with few limitations.
Treatment by an interdisciplinary team of medical
professionals, rehabilitation specialists, and
educational experts is critical to a positive outcome.
Left untreated, progressive hydrocephalus may be
fatal.
33. The symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus
usually get worse over time if the condition is not
treated, although some people may experience
temporary improvements. While the success of
treatment with shunts varies from person to person,
some people recover almost completely after treatment
and have a good quality of life. Early diagnosis and
treatment improves the chance of a good recovery.
34. Research:
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and
Stroke (NINDS) and other institutes of the National
Institutes of Health (NIH) conduct research related to
hydrocephalus in laboratories and clinics at the NIH
and support additional research through grants to
major medical institutions across the country. Much of
this research focuses on finding better ways to prevent,
treat, and ultimately cure disorders such as
hydrocephalus. The NINDS also conducts and
supports a wide range of fundamental studies that
explore the complex mechanisms of normal and
abnormal brain development.