Acute Hydrocephalus

HYDROCEPHALUS, as generally thought of, implies a chronic pathologic process that begins slowly and progresses slowly.1 , 2 Although experimental studies are few, it is estimated that weeks or even months may be required for advanced ventricular enlargement and remodeling of cerebral contour to occur.3 4 5 6 7 8 9 In man, there has been little reason to doubt these estimates. In congenital hydrocephalus, for example, the day-to-day enlargement of the ventricles is slight, and even in the most severely affected infants, an increase in head circumference by more than a few centimeters a week is exceptional. In acquired hydrocephalus, on the other hand, the condition may . . .