22 Questions
What percentage of CSF is produced by the choroid plexus?
50-80%
What is the primary site of CSF absorption?
Sagittal sinus
What is the pressure gradient between the CSAS and SSS?
5-7 mm Hg
What is a common symptom of hydrocephalus in babies?
All of the above
What is a long-term effect of hydrocephalus in children with spina bifida?
All of the above
What is a common physical problem in children with spina bifida?
All of the above
What is a sign of hydrocephalus in babies?
All of the above
What is a common effect of hydrocephalus on daily life?
All of the above
What is the term for the lower part of the brain going further down the spinal cord than usual?
Arnold Chiari Malformation
What is the primary function of CSF?
To provide nutrients to the brain and spinal cord and take away waste products
What is the consequence of delayed treatment in severe hydrocephalus?
A point of no return will be reached
Which of the following is an example of secondary hydrocephalus?
Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Haemorrhage
What is the minimum thickness of the cerebral mantle required for treatability?
1 cm
What is the term for hydrocephalus caused by overproduction of CSF or inability to reabsorb it?
Communicating hydrocephalus
What is the composition of CSF?
Water, salt, glucose, and cells
What is the term for hydrocephalus caused by a blockage in the flow of CSF?
Non-communicating hydrocephalus
What is a characteristic of Executive Functions in individuals with Short Term Memory Impairment?
Not thinking before acting, poor planning and organisation
What is a common symptom of a blocked shunt in individuals with Short Term Memory Impairment?
Vomiting or loss of appetite
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of individuals with Short Term Memory Impairment?
Increased motivation and initiation
What is a potential consequence of Altered Concept of Time in individuals with Short Term Memory Impairment?
No inclination to hurry
What is a characteristic of Inability to Generalise in individuals with Short Term Memory Impairment?
Difficulty transferring concepts from one situation to another, especially in mathematics
What is a common symptom of Short Term Memory Impairment in infants?
Bulging fontanelle and increasing head size
Study Notes
Definition of Hydrocephalus
- Hydrocephalus occurs when there is a blockage in the circulation of CSF from spaces within the brain (ventricles) out over the surface of the brain and down the spinal cord.
- When too much CSF gets trapped in the pathway, the ventricles expand and put pressure on the brain.
Aetiology-Based Classification
- Primary (Brain Malformation): Dysgenetic (Focal - Aqueductal Stenosis, Global - Holoprosencephaly)
- Secondary: Trauma, Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Haemorrhage, Infection, Tumour
Classification
- Communicating Hydrocephalus: occurs when more CSF is produced than can be reabsorbed (e.g. meningitis, traumatic brain injury)
- Non-Communicating Hydrocephalus: blockage in the flow of CSF (e.g. spina bifida, tumours, meningitis)
CSF
- CSF is a clear, colourless fluid that provides nutrients to the brain and spinal cord and takes away waste products.
- It acts as a shock absorber between the skull and the brain, and between the spinal cord and the spine.
CSF Production and Absorption
- 50-80% of CSF is produced by the Choroid Plexus through an energy-dependent process.
- 20-50% is a by-product of CNS metabolism.
- Primary site of absorption is the Sagittal Sinus, through a passive process.
Symptoms
- High-pitched cry, poor feeding, vomiting, large head, full and hard fontanelles.
- Headache, lethargy, and sunset eyes (where the white of the eye can be seen at the top of the eye).
Signs
- Large head size or rapidly growing head.
- Full fontanelles ('soft spot') in a baby.
- 'Sunset eyes' and frontal bossing (the forehead more prominent).
Long-term Effects
- Children with spina bifida may have physical problems, learning difficulties, and difficulty concentrating.
- Some may have vision problems, epilepsy, headaches, and early onset of puberty.
- Fine motor skills may be impaired, affecting drawing and sports.
- Short-term memory impairment, short attention span, and diminished motivation/initiation.
Management
- Drainage, surgery, and medication.
- Third ventriculostomy and shunt management (with potential complications of blocked shunt).
This quiz covers the definition and effects of hydrocephalus in children, including the blockage of CSF circulation and its impact on the brain.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
