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Modeling Posthemorrhagic Hydrocephalus of Prematurity in Rats
Published on: March 28, 2025
Fetal hydrocephalus caused by cryptic intraventricular hemorrhage
Belinda Lategan1, Bernard N Chodirker, Marc R Del Bigio
1Department of Pathology, University of Manitoba and Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Canada.
Brain Pathology (Zurich, Switzerland)
|May 30, 2009
Summary
Cryptic intracerebral hemorrhage may cause fetal hydrocephalus. Autopsy revealed hemosiderin obstruction in the cerebral aqueduct, suggesting a previously undescribed cause of this condition.
Area of Science:
- Neuropathology
- Fetal Medicine
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Fetal hydrocephalus is a significant concern in prenatal diagnostics.
- The etiology of fetal hydrocephalus is diverse, with obstructive causes being common.
- Cryptic intracerebral hemorrhage has been hypothesized but not pathologically confirmed as a cause of fetal hydrocephalus.
Observation:
- Four fetuses with diagnosed hydrocephalus underwent autopsy at 19-22 weeks gestation.
- Ultrasound did not reveal hemorrhagic etiology.
- Autopsy identified hemosiderin-laden macrophages obstructing the cerebral aqueduct in all cases.
Findings:
- Hemosiderin deposition and reactive changes indicated prior hemorrhage.
- Coagulopathy secondary to thrombocytopenia was noted in one fetus.
- Potential intraventricular hemorrhage sites were identified in three fetuses.
Implications:
- This study highlights cryptic intracerebral hemorrhage as a significant, previously undescribed cause of fetal hydrocephalus.
- Thorough autopsy examination is crucial for diagnosing subtle hemorrhagic events.
- Findings have implications for prenatal counseling and understanding hydrocephalus pathogenesis.
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