What is the Difference Between Communicating and Noncommunicating Hydrocephalus?

The main difference between communicating and noncommunicating hydrocephalus lies in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain. Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of CSF, which can cause the ventricles to enlarge and increase pressure inside the head. There are two main classifications of hydrocephalus:

Communicating Hydrocephalus: In this type, the flow of CSF is blocked after it exits the ventricles, but it can still flow between the ventricles, which remain open. This condition is also known as non-obstructive hydrocephalus. One of the subtypes of communicating hydrocephalus is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), which is most common among the elderly and can result from a subarachnoid hemorrhage, head trauma, infection, or other factors.
Noncommunicating Hydrocephalus: Also called obstructive hydrocephalus, this type occurs when the flow of CSF is blocked along one or more of the narrow passages connecting the ventricles. One of the most common causes is aqueductal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the aqueduct of Sylvius, a small passage between the third and fourth ventricles in the brain.

In summary, the primary difference between communicating and noncommunicating hydrocephalus is the flow of CSF within the ventricles. Communicating hydrocephalus allows for CSF flow between the ventricles, while noncommunicating hydrocephalus blocks the flow of CSF along the narrow passages connecting the ventricles.

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What is the Difference Between Communicating and Noncommunicating Hydrocephalus?

Comparative Table: Communicating vs Noncommunicating Hydrocephalus

Communicating and noncommunicating hydrocephalus are two main classifications of hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricles of the brain. Here is a table outlining the differences between the two types:

Feature	Communicating Hydrocephalus	Noncommunicating Hydrocephalus
Definition	Occurs when the flow of CSF is blocked after it exits the ventricles.	Occurs when the flow of CSF is blocked within the ventricular system or in its outlets to the arachnoid space.
CSF Flow	CSF can still flow between the ventricles, which remain open.	CSF flow is obstructed, leading to increased pressure in the ventricular system.
Common Causes	Thickening of the arachnoid layer around the brain may prevent the free flow of CSF.	Aqueductal stenosis, a narrowing of the aqueduct of Sylvius, is a common cause.
Treatment	Typically, individuals with communicating hydrocephalus are not candidates for an Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy, though it is not completely ruled out as an option as each case and individual is unique.	Some individuals with non-communicating hydrocephalus can have a surgical procedure, such as an Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy, to create an opening for CSF to flow in and around the brain.
Symptoms	Both conditions show common symptoms such as headache, abnormal vision, nausea, vomiting, poor coordination, sleepiness, irritability, and abnormal movements.	Symptoms are similar to communicating hydrocephalus, but the underlying cause and treatment options may differ.

In both cases, the accumulation of CSF in the brain can lead to increased pressure, which can cause brain damage and other complications if left untreated.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.