Hydrocephalus
- Not uncommon in dogs and cats.
- Abnormal drainage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) results in dilation of the ventricles of the brain.
- Is a result of either stenosis of:
- The aqueduct between the 3rd and 4th ventricle, or
- The foramina further back in the brain stem.
- May also be acquired as a result of compression by tumours or infectious processes.
- Is a result of either stenosis of:
- Dilation of the ventricles with CSF causes pressure atrophy of the overlying brain tissue.
- Hydrocephalus can be seen at birth.
- Characterised by a dome shaped skull and open fontanelles.
- Hydrocephalus may also be hidden and detected later in life.