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Clinical features of adult hydrocephalus

Authoring team

The presentation of hydrocephalus in adults is variable and dependent on the type and the underlying aetiology.

Features of an acute onset include:

  • features of raised intracranial pressure - headache, vomiting, papilloedema and impaired conscious level
  • impaired upward gaze (1)

Features of a gradual onset are similar to those seen in normal pressure hydrocephalus. These develop progressively and include:

  • mental impairment
  • gait apraxia; plantar reflexes often extensor; tendon jerks exaggerated or diminished
  • urinary incontinence due to sphincter dysfunction
  • hypopituitarism due to enlargement of the third ventricle into the posterior fossa (2)

Reference:

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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