Specific Types & Syndromes
Post-infectious hydrocephalus
Post-infectious hydrocephalus is hydrocephalus that develops after an infection such as meningitis, by scarring the CSF pathways.
In short: Post-infectious hydrocephalus
- It develops after an infection, often meningitis.
- Infection scars the CSF pathways and absorption sites.
- It is an important cause worldwide.
- It can be complex, sometimes with multiloculated hydrocephalus.
What it is
Post-infectious hydrocephalus is hydrocephalus that develops as a consequence of an infection of the central nervous system, most commonly meningitis or ventriculitis. The infection's inflammation and scarring impair CSF flow and absorption.
Understanding Post-infectious hydrocephalus
When the meninges or ventricles are infected, the resulting inflammation can scar the CSF pathways and clog the absorption sites, leading to hydrocephalus — often the communicating type, though scarring within the ventricles can also cause obstruction or compartmentalization (multiloculated hydrocephalus). Post-infectious hydrocephalus is an important cause worldwide, particularly where infections are common, and it can be complex to treat. Management may involve a shunt, ETV, or endoscopic procedures to address compartments, depending on the anatomy. Prompt, thorough treatment of the underlying infection helps limit scarring.
Why it matters
Understanding post-infectious hydrocephalus helps families see how infections like meningitis can lead to hydrocephalus through scarring, and why these cases can be complex and individualized to treat.
Common questions
What causes post-infectious hydrocephalus?
An infection such as meningitis, which scars the CSF pathways.
What type results?
Often the communicating type, but it can be complex.
Is it common worldwide?
Yes — it is an important cause globally.
Bottom line
Post-infectious hydrocephalus develops after infections like meningitis by scarring the CSF pathways, and can be complex to treat.
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