Hydrocephalus ex vacuo is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain's ventricles or cavities. Unlike typical hydrocephalus, which is caused by an imbalance of CSF production and absorption, hydrocephalus ex vacuo occurs when there is a loss of brain tissue due to various pathological conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases, brain trauma, or stroke.
The term "ex vacuo" in Latin refers to the filling of an empty space, and in the context of hydrocephalus, it signifies the compensatory enlargement of ventricles due to the loss of brain tissue. As the brain tissue shrinks or degenerates, the ventricles expand to take up the empty space, resulting in the accumulation of CSF.
The enlargement of ventricles distinguishes hydrocephalus ex vacuo from other forms of hydrocephalus. In this condition, the increased CSF volume is compensatory rather than being the primary cause of symptoms or complications. Symptoms experienced by individuals with hydrocephalus ex vacuo may vary depending on the underlying cause, but they commonly include cognitive impairment, motor dysfunction, and neurological deficits.
Diagnosis of hydrocephalus ex vacuo is typically made using neuroimaging techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, which reveal the enlarged ventricles and identify the cause of brain tissue loss.
Treatment options for hydrocephalus ex vacuo primarily focus on managing the underlying cause or condition responsible for brain tissue loss. In some cases, symptom management techniques such as medication or physical therapy may be employed to help alleviate specific symptoms associated with the condition.
