Causes & Risk Factors
Low birth weight
Low birth weight is strongly associated with hydrocephalus, largely because it accompanies prematurity and the risk of brain hemorrhage.
In short: Low birth weight
- Very low birth weight markedly increases the risk of hydrocephalus.
- It is closely linked to prematurity.
- The connection is largely through intraventricular hemorrhage.
- Smaller babies are monitored closely.
What it is
Low birth weight refers to a baby being born weighing less than typical for term, often because of prematurity. Very low birth weight, in particular, is strongly associated with an increased risk of hydrocephalus.
Understanding Low birth weight
Low birth weight usually accompanies premature birth, and the smallest babies have the most fragile germinal matrix blood vessels, making intraventricular hemorrhage — and resulting post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus — more likely. Studies have found that very low birth weight (for example, under about 1,500 grams) is associated with a markedly higher risk of congenital hydrocephalus compared with higher birth weights. Because of this strong association, the smallest and most premature infants are monitored especially closely for developing hydrocephalus.
Why it matters
Understanding the link between low birth weight and hydrocephalus helps families see why the smallest babies are at particular risk and are monitored closely, since low birth weight and prematurity together raise the chance of brain hemorrhage and hydrocephalus.
Common questions
Why is low birth weight a risk factor?
It accompanies prematurity and the risk of brain hemorrhage.
Is the risk substantial?
Very low birth weight is associated with a markedly higher risk.
Are these babies monitored?
Yes — the smallest infants are monitored closely.
Bottom line
Low birth weight is strongly associated with hydrocephalus, largely through its link to prematurity and intraventricular hemorrhage.
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