Hydrocephalus

Abstract

Hydrocephalus is an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within brain cavities (ventricles). Acute hydrocephalus occurs over days, subacute over weeks, and chronic over months or years. It is broadly classified into two groups: Communicating - full communication exists between the ventricles and subarachnoid space. Noncommunicating - CSF flow is obstructed within the ventricular system or in its outlets to the arachnoid space. © 2010 Springer-Verlag London.