Core Terms & Classification
Primary hydrocephalus
Primary hydrocephalus refers to hydrocephalus that is the main condition, rather than a consequence of another identified disorder.
In short: Primary hydrocephalus
- It is hydrocephalus occurring on its own as the principal problem.
- It is sometimes used in contrast to "secondary" hydrocephalus.
- The terminology can vary among clinicians.
- The distinction helps frame the underlying situation.
What it is
Primary hydrocephalus is a term used for hydrocephalus that exists as the main condition itself, rather than developing as a result of a separate, identified disorder. The usage of "primary" and "secondary" can vary among clinicians and contexts.
Understanding Primary hydrocephalus
In some usages, "primary" hydrocephalus refers to cases without an obvious acquired cause — for example, certain congenital forms such as X-linked hydrocephalus, which is sometimes described as a primary form in boys. Because the terms "primary" and "secondary" are applied differently in different settings, the practical meaning is best confirmed with the care team. The underlying goal is to distinguish hydrocephalus that stands as its own condition from hydrocephalus that follows another disorder.
Why it matters
Understanding the term helps families interpret records that describe hydrocephalus as "primary," and recognize that it points to hydrocephalus as the principal condition. Clarifying the specific usage with the team avoids confusion.
Common questions
What does primary hydrocephalus mean?
Hydrocephalus that is the main condition, not caused by another identified disorder.
Is the terminology standardized?
Usage can vary among clinicians.
How does it differ from secondary?
Secondary hydrocephalus follows another condition.
Bottom line
Primary hydrocephalus refers to hydrocephalus as the principal condition, in contrast to secondary forms that follow another disorder.
Browse all 265 Hydrocephalus definitions
Read the Hydrocephalus patient guides
Not sure which page you need? Put words to it with the symptom navigator