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Neuro-Hydrocephalus in Adults

Adult-onset hydrocephalus including normal pressure hydrocephalus and chronic obstructive forms requiring neurologic and neurosurgical care.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Neuro-Hydrocephalus in Adults?

Adult hydrocephalus encompasses several distinct entities: normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), characterized by gait disturbance, cognitive decline and urinary incontinence; chronic obstructive (non-communicating) hydrocephalus from aqueductal stenosis or mass lesions; and communicating hydrocephalus from prior subarachnoid hemorrhage, meningitis or other conditions.

Diagnosis combines clinical evaluation, neuroimaging (MRI demonstrating ventriculomegaly with disproportionate sulcal widening or aqueductal narrowing), large-volume lumbar puncture (tap test) and continuous CSF infusion or external lumbar drainage trials in NPH. Differential includes neurodegenerative disease, vascular dementia and brain atrophy.

Treatment for selected NPH patients includes ventriculoperitoneal shunting and, in cases of aqueductal stenosis, endoscopic third ventriculostomy. Outcomes depend on patient selection, comorbidities, surgical technique and shunt management. Long-term follow-up by neurology and neurosurgery is essential.

Symptoms

Gait apraxia and shuffling
Cognitive decline and apathy
Urinary urgency and incontinence
Headache (in obstructive forms)
Imbalance and falls
Drowsiness or visual disturbance
Papilledema in acute decompensation

Risk Factors

Older age
Prior subarachnoid hemorrhage
Meningitis or encephalitis
Aqueductal stenosis
Posterior fossa or third ventricle tumor
Vascular comorbidities
Family history of hydrocephalus

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Triad of gait, cognition and urinary symptoms
  • Headache with neurologic deficits
  • New visual disturbances
  • Acute decompensation of hydrocephalus
  • Failed conservative measures
  • Need for neurosurgical evaluation

Treatment Methods

01
MRI and CSF dynamics evaluation
02
Tap test and external lumbar drainage trial
03
Ventriculoperitoneal shunting in NPH
04
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy
05
Treatment of underlying obstructive lesion
06
Programmable shunt valves
07
Long-term neurology and neurosurgery follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.