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Updated: May 21, 2026
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Published on: March 28, 2025
Hydrocephalic fits: forgotten but not gone
Ji Hoon Phi1, Seung-Ki Kim, Tae Hee Kang
1Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Children's Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, 110-744, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Summary
Hydrocephalic fits in brain tumor patients are fatal but preventable. Early diagnosis and managing intracranial pressure are crucial for preventing these fits, especially in young children with posterior fossa tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Pediatric Oncology
- Neurology
Background:
- Hydrocephalic fit is a rare but fatal complication of posterior fossa tumors.
- Lack of experience with hydrocephalic fits among physicians increases patient vulnerability.
- This study analyzes observed hydrocephalic fits in patients referred to the institution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze patterns of hydrocephalic fits in brain tumor patients.
- To identify factors contributing to hydrocephalic fit development.
- To improve understanding and management of this condition.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of clinical records and radiological data.
- Analysis of eight patients with brain tumors and hydrocephalic fit between 2001 and 2012.
- Categorization of patients into classical and teenage groups based on tumor type and outcome.
Main Results:
- Six young children with posterior fossa tumors rapidly succumbed after hydrocephalic fits.
- Two teenage patients with germ cell tumors had better outcomes with extraventricular drainage (EVD).
- Factors contributing to fits included missed diagnosis, sedation, poor ICP management, and referral delays.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis of brain tumors and proactive intracranial pressure control are vital for preventing hydrocephalic fits.
- Physicians must possess thorough knowledge of brain tumor symptoms and hydrocephalic fit risks.
- Prompt EVD may improve survival rates in patients experiencing hydrocephalic fits.
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