Specific Types & Syndromes
Secondary normal pressure hydrocephalus
Secondary normal pressure hydrocephalus is NPH that follows an identifiable cause, such as prior hemorrhage, infection, or injury.
In short: Secondary normal pressure hydrocephalus
- It is NPH with an identifiable underlying cause.
- Causes include prior hemorrhage, meningitis, or head injury.
- It shows the same triad as idiopathic NPH.
- It can also be treated, often with a shunt.
What it is
Secondary normal pressure hydrocephalus is the form of NPH that develops following an identifiable cause — for example, a prior subarachnoid hemorrhage, meningitis, or head injury. It is distinguished from idiopathic NPH, where no cause is found.
Understanding Secondary normal pressure hydrocephalus
In secondary NPH, an earlier event impaired CSF flow or absorption, eventually leading to the NPH picture of enlarged ventricles and the classic triad of gait, cognitive, and bladder symptoms. Because there is an identifiable cause, the history (such as a past brain bleed or infection) helps with diagnosis. Like idiopathic NPH, secondary NPH can be treated, often with a shunt, and evaluation includes assessing the likelihood of benefit. Recognizing a prior cause can also inform the overall understanding of the patient's condition.
Why it matters
Understanding secondary NPH helps families see that NPH can follow an earlier event like a hemorrhage or infection, and that it, too, can be treatable — making the prior history relevant to diagnosis and care.
Common questions
What is secondary NPH?
NPH that follows an identifiable cause.
What are common causes?
Prior hemorrhage, meningitis, or head injury.
Can it be treated?
Yes — often with a shunt.
Bottom line
Secondary normal pressure hydrocephalus is NPH following an identifiable cause like hemorrhage, infection, or injury, and is also treatable.
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