Abstract:
The term hydrocephalus derived from two Greek words, hydro
for water and kephale for head. Hydrocephalus implies an excessive
accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the cavities of the
brain known as ventricles. (1)
Build up in CSF volume can result from interference with
normal CSF circulation [due to an obstruction in the brain’s
ventricular system], or as the result of a problem with CSF
reabsorption. (1)
In most instances, hydrocephalus is a life long condition in that
the patient is treated rather than cured. Treatment by shunting the CSF
to another area of the body, generally allows patients to lead full active
lives. (1)
Patients and their families however, should be aware of signs
symptoms and complications so that medical care can be thought in a
timely manner when necessary. (1)
There are many method for imaging and demonstrating
hyydrocephalus, such as pneumoencephlography, air ventriculography,
echoencephalography and others which have been used for many years
to evaluate the etiology of hydrocephalus in adults and children, but
this procedures carry only a slight risk and less and not accurate
information, so they become less reluctant to request for patient with
early or mild signs and symptoms. (2)
Now days there are most useful modalities in diagnosis, among
these methods there are CT and U/S which are in our interest.
2
Ultrasound of the brain has become an integral part of care in the
neonate and pediatrics in last decade, particularly among high – risk
premature infants. Current U/S technology allows for rapid evaluation
of infants in the intensive care nursery with no risk. New areas of U/S
application are rapidly evolving. Pulsed and color Doppler imaging of
cranial blood flow. (3)
Computer tomography is now regarded by many as the linkpin of
modern diagnostic imaging, its contrast value in many clinical
situation, and its ability to provide direct information about existence
and nature of intracranial pathology was quickly appreciated and made
the indirect imaging technique such as ventriculography obsolete. (4)
The introduction of CT has enabled investigators to evaluate
brain structure and ventricular size by a safe and non invasive
technique accurate assessment of CSF dynamics is possible if CT is
performed after the intrathecal introduction of a water – soluble
contrast agent. These diagnostic technique have stopped the need for
pneumography in evaluation of patients with suspected hydrocephalus.
The neuroradiologist must study the patient carefully and then
decide how to achieve the most accurate radiologic information with
the least morbidity, the least radiation exposure and the least cost to
the patient, and as we know the early diagnosis of patholoigc condition
in the brain may greatly affect patient treatment planning and
management. (2)
