Definition

1. Noun:
   • A medical condition involving fluid accumulation in the brain: Hydrocephalus is an abnormal condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles (cavities) of the brain. This buildup increases pressure on the brain tissues.

Usage

• Hydrocephalus is primarily used as a medical term.
• It functions as a non-count (uncountable) noun when referring to the condition in general.
• It can be used with a definite article ("the") when referring to a specific case or instance.
• Common collocations include: "diagnosed with hydrocephalus," "treatment for hydrocephalus," "symptoms of hydrocephalus."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The infant was diagnosed with congenital hydrocephalus.
  • Surgery is often required to treat hydrocephalus and relieve the pressure on the brain.
  • The primary cause of her neurological symptoms was found to be hydrocephalus.

Advanced Usage

• "Communicating hydrocephalus": A type of hydrocephalus where the flow of CSF is blocked after it exits the ventricles.

  • The MRI scan indicated a case of communicating hydrocephalus.

• "Obstructive hydrocephalus": A type of hydrocephalus caused by a blockage within the ventricular system of the brain.

  • The tumor was causing obstructive hydrocephalus.

Variants and Related Words

• Hydrocephalic (adj): Pertaining to or affected by hydrocephalus.
  • The hydrocephalic condition required immediate medical attention.

Synonyms

• Water on the brain: A non-technical, layperson's term for hydrocephalus. (Note: This term is considered outdated and less precise in medical contexts.)

Noun

1. an abnormal condition in which cerebrospinal fluid collects in the ventricles of the brain; in infants it can cause abnormally rapid growth of the head and bulging fontanelles and a small face; in adults the symptoms are primarily neurological