Clinical Presentation of Pediatric Patients Diagnosed with Hydrocephalus Admitted in Tertiary Care Hospital of North India

Background Hydrocephalus is a common neurological disorder in children caused by an imbalance between cerebrospinal fluid production and absorption. Early recognition of its clinical presentation is essential for timely diagnosis and management. Objective To assess the clinical presentation of pediatric patients diagnosed with hydrocephalus admitted to the neurosurgery units of a tertiary care hospital. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 85 pediatric patients with hydrocephalus admitted from July to December 2022, using total enumeration. Data were collected through caregiver interviews using a structured schedule covering sociodemographic characteristics, clinical profile, and presenting complaints. Results Aqueductal stenosis (41.2%) was the leading cause of hydrocephalus, followed by meningitis (29.4%), brain tumors (15.3%), and myelomeningocele (14.1%). Most patients (80.0%) underwent right medium-pressure ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery. Increased head circumference (82.5%) and vomiting (50.6%) were the most common presenting complaints. Conclusion Clinical presentation varied across age groups. Early recognition of symptoms and timely referral may improve outcomes and reduce complications in pediatric hydrocephalus.