Hydrocephalus is a condition characterised primarily by an excessive accumulation of fluid in the ventricles, which is the area in the brain. The term is derived from Greek words hydro meaning “water” and cephalus meaning “head.” “Water,” in this case, refers to Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF), which is the clear fluid found in the surrounding of spinal cord and brain. The excess amount of fluid in the brain results in an abnormal widening of the ventricles, and will potentially put pressure to the brain. It can lead to a permanent damage in the brain, causing problems in mental and physical development of the patients.
The exact cause of Hydrocephalus remains unclear- with some cases occurring congenitally, as a result of genetic abnormality, and others being acquired later in life. The treatment for Hydrocephalus centers around a surgical insertion of a shunt system to drain the excess fluid to another part of the body that can be more easily absorbed. In combination with this, Stem Cell Treatment can contribute to the repair of the damaged tissues and promote physical and mental development originally hindered by the illness.
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