Patient's question:
At 34 weeks of pregnancy, the fetal left lateral ventricle measured 1.2 cm, and the right lateral ventricle measured 1.0 cm. Further MRI was performed, with the widest measurement being 1.2 cm and 1.4 cm, respectively. No other abnormalities were found.Doctor's answer:
Lateral ventricle enlargement indicates hydrocephalus in the fetus. During the rapid growth period of the fetus, the development of the fetal brain may sometimes be faster than that of the cerebral aqueduct system. When the amount of cerebrospinal fluid produced inside the brain significantly exceeds the circulatory capacity of the aqueduct system, mild expansion of the ventricular system may occur. However, this mild expansion gradually disappears as the aqueduct system inside the brain matures. In cases of significant hydrocephalus, it is often characterized by the brain being filled with fluid on one side or entirely. Under normal circumstances, the width of the lateral ventricle in the fetus increases with gestational age before 32 weeks and then narrows after 32 weeks, with a maximum width of 13.4 mm. A width greater than 15 mm can be preliminarily diagnosed as mild hydrocephalus. The width of the lateral ventricle is related to the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the fetal intracranial cavity and is also related to the section taken by the ultrasound operator. Some cases of hydrocephalus may be associated with chromosomal disorders. Certain conditions may be mistakenly mistaken for hydrocephalus. Experienced ultrasound doctors will compare relevant factors to make a well-founded diagnosis. Mild abnormalities discovered during pregnancy can be confirmed through dynamic observation. We recommend that you do not overreact and have a follow-up examination in one month. If any abnormal conditions are found, timely treatment should be administered.