Pregnant for six months, found fetal hydrocephalus

Patient's question:

No

Doctor's answer:

Hello, hydrocephalus is a general term referring to the condition where an excessive amount of cerebrospinal fluid accumulates due to a disruption in its production or absorption, leading to increased intracranial pressure and expansion of the space normally occupied by cerebrospinal fluid. The factors or causes are mostly due to obstructions in certain parts of the cerebrospinal fluid circulation pathway, while overproduction is less common.
Medical Advice:
Treatment during the fetal stage is not possible; it can only be addressed after birth. Non-surgical treatment is suitable for early-stage or mild cases with slow progression. The methods include:
(1) Using diuretics or dehydration agents, such as acetazolamide, hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, and mannitol.
(2) Repeated puncture and drainage through the anterior fontanelle or lumbar spine.
Surgical treatment is recommended for cases with high intraventricular pressure (exceeding 250 mm of water column) or those that fail to respond to non-surgical treatment. Severe hydrocephalus, such as cases with a head circumference exceeding 50 cm, cerebral cortex atrophy with a thickness of less than 1 cm, and severe functional impairments or deformities, may have poor surgical outcomes.
Lifestyle Care:
Hydrocephalus may lead to fetal death, so you should closely monitor the condition.