Neurol. praxi. 2011;12(6):411-417

Normal pressure hydrocephalus

MUDr.Václav Vybíhal

Neurochirurgická klinika, LF MU a FN Brno

Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a special type of communicating hydrocephalus characterised by the classic clinical triad of gait

disturbance, dementia, and urinary incontinence. Magnetic resonance imaging plays the main role in the field of imaging methods

and it is useful in differential diagnosis, too. Tap test, lumbar infusion test and external lumbar drainage belong to the most frequently

used tests in the selection of patients for operative treatment. Based on the clinical state of a patient, findings of the imaging methods,

results of the supplemental tests, and also taking into account the co-morbidities and surgery risks, patients are indicated for the implantation

of a shunt. Implantation of a ventriculo-peritoneal or ventriculo-atrial shunt is a standard therapy with the preferential use

of programmable valves.

Keywords: normal pressure hydrocephalus, idiopathic, secondary, tap test, lumbar infusion test, external lumbar drainage

Published: December 1, 2011  Show citation