hydrocephalus
/'haidrou'sefələs/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- 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 (Note: This term is considered outdated and less precise in medical contexts.)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
- 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