Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus refers to the accumulation of fluid inside the skin causing inflammation of the brain. Broadly, the term denotes water on the brain. It is caused due to the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is the liquid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. The CSF is responsible for bringing nutrients to the brain and taking away wastes from it, thus acting as a cushion. Infants affected with hydrocephalus experience CSF building up in their central nervous system and thus causing the soft spot (fontanelle) to swell and the head to widen than expected. Hydrocephalus can be prevented by protecting the head of an infant or young child from injury.