Pediatric Hydrocephalus and the Primary Care Provider

Abstract

Hydrocephalus is a pathologic condition that results in the disruption of normal cerebrospinal fluid flow dynamics often characterized by an increase in intracranial pressure resulting in an abnormal dilation of the ventricles. The goal of this article was to provide the necessary background information to understand the pathophysiology related to hydrocephalus, recognize the presenting signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus, identify when to initiate a workup with further studies, and understand the management of pediatric patients with a new and preexisting diagnosis of hydrocephalus.

Keywords: CSF (Cerebrospinal fluid) shunting; Pediatric neurosurgery; Primary care; Ventriculomegaly; hydrocephalus (HCP).