HYDROCEPHALUS IN ADULTS AND ELDERLY, LITERATURE REVIEW (Atena Editora)

Abstract

Introduction and Purpose: Hydrocephalus is an active distention of the ventricular system resulting from inadequate passage of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) from its point of production within the cerebral ventricles to the point of absorption into the systemic circulation. Several causes can motivate the onset of the disease, which occurs regardless of age or gender. The objective of this work was to carry out a systematic review of case reports involving hydrocephalus in adults and the elderly, focusing on epidemiological data, risk factors, clinical aspects, diagnostic methods and therapeutic approach. Methods: the bibliographic research was developed from the analysis of scientific articles obtained from the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), BIREME, PUBMED, LILACS, Google Scholar and Virtual Health Library (BVS) databases. The keywords were used: “hydrocephalus”, “normal pressure hydrocephalus and the corresponding words in English, “hydrocephalus” and “normal pressure hydrocephalus”. Results: There are several causes of Hydrocephalus, such as trauma, hemorrhages, tumors, cysts, infections, neoplasms and problems of a developmental nature, which can arise with senility. Its characteristic clinical aspect is the triad: gait disorder, progressive mental deterioration and urinary incontinence, among others. Regarding diagnostic methods, serial tap-test or lumbar puncture examination can collaborate to establish a more accurate diagnosis. The most recurrent treatment is ventriculoperitoneal shunt with implantation of a programmable valve. Conclusion: hydrocephalus, therefore, can affect people of all ages and genders, with a higher prevalence of some types in the elderly, mainly affecting those over 65 years of age.