Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hydrocephalus

Noun

/ˌhaɪdrəˈsɛfələs/

Definition

A medical condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain’s ventricles, leading to increased pressure inside the skull.

Examples

The child was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at birth and underwent surgery to relieve the pressure.
Symptoms of hydrocephalus can include headaches, vision problems, and difficulty with balance.
Treatment for hydrocephalus often involves the placement of a shunt to help drain excess fluid.

Meaning

Hydrocephalus literally means ‘water on the brain.’ This condition occurs when the brain’s normal drainage system for cerebrospinal fluid is blocked or disrupted, resulting in enlargement of the head, and potential brain damage if not treated.