CONGENITAL HYDROCEPHALUS Meaning and
Definition
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Congenital hydrocephalus is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain before birth. It is present at birth or develops shortly after, due to an obstruction to the normal flow or absorption of CSF. This condition affects the normal growth and development of the brain, as the excessive accumulation of fluid increases pressure on the brain tissues.
Typically, congenital hydrocephalus is caused by structural abnormalities in the brain, such as malformations of the ventricular system or an obstruction in the pathways where CSF flows. These abnormalities can be the result of genetic mutations, inadequate development during fetal growth, or infections during pregnancy.
The signs and symptoms of congenital hydrocephalus vary depending on the severity and rate of fluid accumulation, but common indicators include an unusually large head (macrocephaly), a bulging or tense fontanelle (soft spot), seizures, irritability, poor muscle tone, and developmental delays. These symptoms may appear shortly after birth or become noticeable as the child grows.
Diagnosis of congenital hydrocephalus involves imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to visualize the brain structure and identify the presence of fluid accumulation. Treatment options typically include surgical intervention, such as the insertion of a shunt system, to redirect and drain CSF to other parts of the body, thus alleviating the pressure on the brain.
The long-term outcomes of congenital hydrocephalus can vary depending on the underlying cause, the time of diagnosis, and the effectiveness of treatment. Early detection, intervention, and ongoing management are crucial for optimizing the neurological development and quality of life for individuals with congenital hydrocephalus.
Common Misspellings for CONGENITAL HYDROCEPHALUS
- xongenital hydrocephalus
- vongenital hydrocephalus
- fongenital hydrocephalus
- dongenital hydrocephalus
- cingenital hydrocephalus
- ckngenital hydrocephalus
- clngenital hydrocephalus
- cpngenital hydrocephalus
- c0ngenital hydrocephalus
- c9ngenital hydrocephalus
- cobgenital hydrocephalus
- comgenital hydrocephalus
- cojgenital hydrocephalus
- cohgenital hydrocephalus
- confenital hydrocephalus
- convenital hydrocephalus
- conbenital hydrocephalus
- conhenital hydrocephalus
- conyenital hydrocephalus
- contenital hydrocephalus
Etymology of CONGENITAL HYDROCEPHALUS
The word "congenital" originates from the Latin term "congenitus", which is derived from the combination of "con-" (meaning "together" or "with") and "genitus" (meaning "born" or "begotten"). This signifies a condition that is present at birth or that develops in an individual during gestation.
On the other hand, "hydrocephalus" is derived from the Greek terms "hydro" (meaning "water") and "kephale" (meaning "head"). It refers to a medical condition characterized by the buildup of excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain, leading to an abnormal enlargement of the cranial cavity.
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