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Dr. Saurabh Nandwani said hydrocephalus often results from infections like TB or absorption issues in the brain, leading to abnormal fluid buildup and increased pressure
This cerebrospinal fluid is crucial for body function and brain cleaning, removing waste produced by brain metabolism. (Representative/AP)
A French man astonished doctors when a scan revealed that 90 percent of his brain was missing due to a rare disease called hydrocephalus. Despite this, he lived a normal life, working and maintaining a family without significant mental issues. This discovery raises questions about whether some people’s brains are truly ’empty’, a concept often joked about.
To understand hydrocephalus, News18 consulted Dr. Saurabh Nandwani, Consultant, Department of Neurology, Fortis Hospital, New Delhi.
What Is Hydrocephalus?
Dr. Nandwani explained that ’empty brain’ is a layman’s term and not scientifically accurate. The CT scan shows water, not an empty space. This cerebrospinal fluid is crucial for body function and brain cleaning, removing waste produced by brain metabolism. This fluid circulates around brain organs and is produced daily, passing through the ventricles to clean the brain and spinal column. When excess fluid accumulates, it leads to hydrocephalus, appearing as a dark area in CT scans. This part isn’t empty but filled with fluid.
What Causes Hydrocephalus?
Dr. Saurabh Nandwani explained that hydrocephalus can have multiple causes. In most cases, it occurs due to an infection that leads to an abnormal buildup of fluid in the brain. For instance, hydrocephalus can occur due to infections like TB or issues in the brain preventing fluid absorption. This fluid typically flows around the brain and spinal cord (cerebral column) and is mainly absorbed by blood vessels in the tissue lining the brain’s surface. However, if a blockage occurs, it can disrupt this process, causing fluid to accumulate in the brain.
Symptoms Of Hydrocephalus
Symptoms vary between children and adults. Children’s brains may enlarge, while adults’ brains shrink. Common symptoms include dizziness, vomiting, lethargy, irritability, difficulty eating, running around, abnormal eye shape, headaches, and weak muscles.
Is There a Cure for Hydrocephalus?
Dr. Nandwani shared that hydrocephalus is treatable. Infections are managed with medication, and blockages may require surgery to remove the excess fluid via a small pipe. In some cases, stents or additional surgeries are necessary.
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