Imaging examinations in children with hydrocephalus

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pediatrics
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Hydrocephalus is defined by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) imbalance, leading to ventricular system dilatation.
• Congenital hydrocephalus accounts for approximately 55% of all cases.
• Diagnosis relies on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, differentiating between communicating and non-communicating types.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the characteristics, diagnosis, and age-dependent presentation of hydrocephalus.
• To highlight the distinct causes and symptoms in pediatric patients based on age.
• To emphasize the role of imaging in hydrocephalus management.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on hydrocephalus pathophysiology and clinical presentation.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria using CT and MR imaging.
• Correlation of symptoms and causes with patient age groups.

Main Results:

• Hydrocephalus presents differently in children under and over two years old.
• Infants may show head enlargement and fontanel widening, while older children present with optic nerve atrophy and papilledema.
• Intraventricular hemorrhage is the primary cause in younger children, whereas inflammatory processes are more common in older children.

Conclusions:

• Hydrocephalus management requires age-specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
• Ophthalmological and imaging findings are critical for diagnosis and monitoring.
• Understanding age-related etiology is essential for effective treatment of hydrocephalus.