Fetal Ventriculomegaly
Overview
Causes
It may be caused by problems with how the brain grows. It may also be caused by the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This fluid surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord. It should move smoothly. If its flow is slowed or stopped, it can put pressure on the ventricles and make them get bigger.
Risk Factors
Things that may raise the risk of this problem in a child are:
- Brain cysts
- Spina bifida
- Bleeding within the brain
- A rare birth defect called agenesis of the corpus callosum
Certain infections of the pregnant mother can raise the risk. These are:
- Cytomegalovirus—an infection caused by a type of herpes virus
- Toxoplasmosis—an infection linked to cat stool or infected food
- Syphilis—a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
- Chickenpox
- Lymphocytic choriomeningitis—a virus spread by mice (rare)
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
After birth, a child may have:
- Rapid head growth
- A bulging soft spot
- Scalp veins that bulge
- Problems with eye movement
- Delays in development
- Problems feeding
- Vomiting
- Fussiness or sleepiness
Treatments
Treatment
Sometimes this problem gets better on its own. The baby's health will be monitored.
If the problem gets worse, other methods will be needed to drain the fluid. This can be done by placing a ventriculoperitoneal shunt after the child is born.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
Copyright © EBSCO Information Services
All rights reserved.