What does NPH mean in medical terms?

What does NPH mean in medical terms?

This fluid is called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It cushions the brain and spinal cord. Normally your body makes just enough CSF each day and absorbs that same amount. Sometimes, however, too much fluid can build up in the ventricles. This can lead to a normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).

What is an NPH test?

To confirm a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, one or more of the following tests are done: Brain imaging: Imaging of the brain’s structure to detect enlargement of the ventricles, often with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or CT scan, plays a key role in diagnosing normal pressure hydrocephalus.

What is NPH disease?

Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain’s ventricles, or cavities. It occurs if the normal flow of CSF throughout the brain and spinal cord is blocked in some way. This causes the ventricles to enlarge, putting pressure on the brain.

What is NPH in neurosurgery?

Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a progressive condition that occurs when there is too much cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. Normally, CSF is produced inside two large cavities in the brain called ventricles.

Why does NPH cause incontinence?

The bladder disorders in NPH are the result of a hyperactive detrusor muscle due to reduced or absent central inhibition. At first the patient suffers from an increased micturition frequency. In the further course, urge incontinence usually follows and can progress to an absolute urinary incontinence.

What is the life expectancy of someone with normal pressure hydrocephalus?

Survival in untreated hydrocephalus is poor. Approximately, 50% of the affected patients die before three years of age and approximately 80% die before reaching adulthood. Treatment markedly improves the outcome for hydrocephalus not associated with tumors, with 89% and 95% survival in two case studies.

Can NPH cause seizures?

The symptoms of NPH usually get worse over time if the condition is left untreated. Patients with untreated, advanced NPH may experience seizures, which can get progressively worse. Dementia and/or bladder control problems usually appear after gait disturbances as the condition progresses.

How long can you live with untreated NPH?

Can you drive with NPH?

You will not be allowed to drive until at least six months after your shunt is fitted. Contact the DVLA again six months after your surgery, as they will need to ask your neurosurgeon to confirm that you are fit to drive (i.e. have had no seizures or blackouts).