​Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is produced by and flows through the brain and spinal cord. It protects and provides nutrients to the brain and spinal cord. CSF is absorbed into the bloodstream.

Hydrocephalus is a condition where there is excessive CSF in the brain. When the production and absorption of CSF
are affected, the cavities (ventricles) of the brain enlarge, increasing brain pressure (Figure 1).

The cause of hydrocephalus is usually unknown but could develop due to:

• Injury or trauma to the head or brain
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Tumour

Figure 1: Comparison between normal ventricles and enlarged ventricles