Postmeningitic Hydrocephalus [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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====== Postmeningitic Hydrocephalus ======

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**Definition:**  
Postmeningitic hydrocephalus is a type of secondary hydrocephalus that occurs after an episode of meningitis. It results from inflammation-induced disruption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics.

**Pathophysiology:**  
  * Inflammatory processes lead to:
    * Obstruction of CSF flow (non-communicating hydrocephalus)
    * Impaired CSF absorption (communicating hydrocephalus)
  * Fibrosis and scarring of arachnoid granulations or CSF pathways are common causes.

**Clinical Features:**  
  * Signs of increased intracranial pressure:
    * Headache  
    * Nausea and vomiting  
    * Altered mental status  
    * Papilledema  
  * In infants:
    * Macrocephaly  
    * Bulging fontanelle  
    * Irritability  

**Diagnosis:**  
  * **Neuroimaging (CT or MRI):** Dilated ventricles  
  * **Lumbar puncture:** Elevated opening pressure (performed cautiously)

**Management:**  

[[Postmeningitic Hydrocephalus Management]]


**Prognosis:**  
  * Dependent on underlying cause, timing of intervention, and presence of neurological deficits.

**Related terms:**  
  * Communicating hydrocephalus  
  * Non-communicating hydrocephalus  
  * CSF diversion  
  * VP shunt  
  * ETV