Brain, Meninges & CSF Anatomy
Lateral ventricle
A lateral ventricle is one of the two largest ventricles, one in each half of the brain.
In short: Lateral ventricle
- They are the largest of the four ventricles.
- They contain choroid plexus that makes CSF.
- Their enlargement is often noted on imaging.
- They are commonly measured to assess for hydrocephalus.
What it is
It is one of the two largest ventricles, one in each half of the brain. The lateral ventricles contain choroid plexus, which produces cerebrospinal fluid.
Understanding Lateral ventricle
Imaging often measures the lateral ventricles to assess for ventriculomegaly and hydrocephalus, since enlargement here is a common early indicator. Because they are the largest ventricles and contain CSF-producing tissue, they are a focus when evaluating the brain's fluid system.
Why it matters
Understanding the lateral ventricles helps families interpret imaging that measures ventricle size, a key step in watching for hydrocephalus.
Common questions
How many lateral ventricles are there?
Two, one per brain half.
Are they the largest?
Yes.
Why are they measured?
To assess for ventriculomegaly and hydrocephalus.
Bottom line
The lateral ventricles are the two largest brain ventricles, watched for enlargement.
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