Specific Types & Syndromes
LOVA (long-standing overt ventriculomegaly in adults)
LOVA is a form of long-standing hydrocephalus, present since childhood, that becomes apparent in adulthood with enlarged ventricles and a large head.
In short: LOVA (long-standing overt ventriculomegaly in adults)
- It is long-standing hydrocephalus dating from childhood.
- It becomes apparent or symptomatic in adulthood.
- It features chronically enlarged ventricles and often a large head.
- It is managed with CSF diversion, such as ETV or a shunt.
What it is
LOVA stands for long-standing overt ventriculomegaly in adults — a form of hydrocephalus that has been present since childhood (often from untreated aqueductal stenosis) and becomes apparent or symptomatic in adulthood. It reflects chronic, long-term ventricular enlargement.
Understanding LOVA (long-standing overt ventriculomegaly in adults)
In LOVA, hydrocephalus that began in childhood has persisted for years, often in a compensated state, with chronically enlarged ventricles and frequently a larger-than-average head (reflecting skull expansion during childhood). Symptoms may emerge gradually in adulthood as compensation is lost. LOVA is managed with CSF diversion — endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) is often considered, given the frequent aqueductal level of obstruction, or a shunt. Recognizing LOVA as a long-standing condition helps explain the chronic findings and guides treatment. Evaluation is individualized.
Why it matters
Understanding LOVA helps adults and families see that hydrocephalus present since childhood can become apparent in adulthood, and that it remains treatable, often with ETV, even after many years.
Common questions
What does LOVA stand for?
Long-standing overt ventriculomegaly in adults.
When does it become apparent?
In adulthood, though it dates from childhood.
How is it treated?
With CSF diversion, often ETV or a shunt.
Bottom line
LOVA is long-standing childhood hydrocephalus that becomes apparent in adulthood, treatable with CSF diversion such as ETV.
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