Brain imaging for hydrocephalus Imaging tests can help diagnose hydrocephalus and also may find what's causing symptoms. Common tests include: Ultrasound. This is often the first test for babies because it's simple and low risk.

Understanding the Context

The device is placed on the soft spot, also called the fontanelle, on top of the baby's head. Ultrasound also may detect hydrocephalus before birth during a routine ... If a baby is born prematurely, bleeding may occur within the ventricle, causing hydrocephalus. Normal-pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a specific type of hydrocephalus that enlarges the brain's ventricles and pushes against brain tissue.

Key Insights

But it doesn't change the pressure level in the brain. Or a baby who has a condition that can cause the head to be unusually large, called severe hydrocephalus, may require a C-section. You've had a C-section before or other surgery on the uterus. Although it's often possible to have a vaginal birth after a C-section, your healthcare professional may recommend a repeat C-section. Hydrocephalus is a life-threatening condition that occurs in about 1 in 1,000 newborns and is often treated with invasive surgery.

Final Thoughts

Now, a new study offers hope of preventing hydrocephalus before it ... A mother is speaking out Monday to help find a cure for her 1-year-old son's brain condition.It's called hydrocephalus."I went to my typical 20-week ultrasound for the anatomy scan," mom Brooke Lewis ... Overview Hydrocephalus is the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in spaces called ventricles deep within the brain. This buildup can make the ventricles larger and put pressure on the brain. Cerebrospinal fluid usually flows through the brain ventricles and around the brain and spinal column. When there's too much fluid, the pressure can harm brain tissue and lead to changes in thinking ...

Hydrocephalus can't always be prevented. In many cases, the cause is unknown or happens before birth. But certain steps may lower the risk, especially for conditions that lead to hydrocephalus later in life. During pregnancy Get regular prenatal care.