CSF, Ventricles & Brain Anatomy
Occipital (posterior) horn
The occipital horn is the rear portion of the lateral ventricle, extending into the occipital lobe of the brain.
In short: Occipital (posterior) horn
- It is the back extension of the lateral ventricle.
- It is used in measurements of ventricle size.
- It can be prominent when ventricles enlarge.
- Its appearance is assessed on imaging.
What it is
The occipital (or posterior) horn is the portion of the lateral ventricle that extends backward into the occipital lobe at the rear of the brain. It is one of the named regions of the lateral ventricle.
Understanding Occipital (posterior) horn
The occipital horns are part of the assessment of ventricular size and shape on imaging, including in measurements like the frontal and occipital horn ratio. When ventricles enlarge in hydrocephalus, the occipital horns can become prominent, a pattern radiologists note. Their appearance helps characterize the degree and pattern of ventricular enlargement.
Why it matters
Understanding the occipital horn helps families interpret imaging that describes the back portions of the ventricles, which contribute to assessing the extent and pattern of hydrocephalus.
Common questions
Where is the occipital horn?
In the back of the lateral ventricle, in the occipital lobe.
Why is it referenced?
It is used in measuring ventricle size and pattern.
Can it become prominent?
Yes — it can enlarge in hydrocephalus.
Bottom line
The occipital horn is the rear of the lateral ventricle, used in assessing the extent and pattern of ventricular enlargement.
Browse all 265 Hydrocephalus definitions
Read the Hydrocephalus patient guides
Not sure which page you need? Put words to it with the symptom navigator