Hydrocephalus (Normal Pressure)

Hydrocephalus (Normal Pressure) is a condition that affects the brain and the fluid surrounding it, called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In this disorder, the fluid builds up in the brain's ventricles, causing them to enlarge and put pressure on brain tissue. Despite the increased fluid, the pressure inside the brain often remains within normal limits, which is why it is called normal pressure hydrocephalus. This buildup can lead to problems with walking, thinking, and bladder control. The condition mainly affects older adults and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Early recognition of the hallmark symptoms is important for diagnosis and management.

Hydrocephalus (Normal Pressure) is a form of communicating hydrocephalus characterized by ventriculomegaly with normal or intermittently elevated intracranial pressure. It typically results from impaired CSF absorption at the arachnoid granulations, often due to subarachnoid hemorrhage, meningitis, or idiopathic causes. The classic clinical triad includes gait disturbance, cognitive impairment, and urinary incontinence. The pathophysiology involves chronic CSF accumulation leading to ventricular dilation without a sustained increase in CSF pressure. This condition is significant because it can mimic other neurodegenerative diseases but is potentially reversible with appropriate intervention. Diagnosis requires correlation of clinical features with neuroimaging findings.