communicating hydrocephalus

pathology

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July 19, 2026

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Communicating hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain's ventricles, leading to increased pressure and potential enlargement of the head. Normally, CSF circulates freely and is absorbed into the bloodstream. In communicating hydrocephalus, the obstruction to CSF flow occurs outside the ventricles. This can be caused by congenital malformations, tumors, meningitis, or blood clots. Symptoms may include motor disturbances, headaches, dementia, and vomiting. Surgical insertion of a shunt is often necessary to drain the excess fluid. This condition affects approximately two to three in every 1,000 live births.12

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hydrocephalus
…may be described as either communicating, in which the obstruction to the flow of CSF occurs outside the brain ventricles, or noncommunicating (also called obstructive hydrocephalus), in which the obstruction to the flow of CSF occurs within the ventricles. In rare cases communicating hydrocephalus arises from overproduction of CSF and…
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…may be described as either communicating, in which the obstruction to the flow of CSF occurs outside the brain ventricles, or noncommunicating (also called obstructive hydrocephalus), in which the obstruction to the flow of CSF occurs within the ventricles. In rare cases communicating hydrocephalus arises from overproduction of CSF and…
Read More