Accumulation Of Excessive Fluid In The Brain

Overview

Accumulation of excessive fluid in the brain is something not normal and the condition is also known as hydrocephalus. The excessive fluid is referring to the excess cerebrospinal fluid. The causes can be divided into congenital and acquired causes. Congenital causes is largely due to malformations such as aqueduct stenosis, Chiari malformations, Dandy-Walker syndrome, benign intracranial cysts, Vein of Galen aneurysms, congenital central nervous system infection and craniofacial anomalies Some of the acquired causes are mass lesions especially in the posterior fossa, tumours, colloid cyst of the third ventricle, brain abscess, hematoma, and absorption blockage due to inflammation such as meningitis, sarcoidosis, and intracranial haemorrhage. The most important investigation which can be done is MRI of the brain The principle of management is by creating an alternate diversion to reduce the fluid amount. This can be created by a shunt placed between the ventricular and peritoneal system or right atrium.