Question
How effective is the treatment for pediatric hydrocephalus? A friend’s child was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at five months old and is currently undergoing treatment with neurotrophic factor therapy to alleviate symptoms. Can this treatment cure the condition? What is the best choice for treating hydrocephalus?
Answer
Generally, non-surgical treatments are recommended first for mild hydrocephalus, primarily involving dehydration therapy and comprehensive supportive treatment. Surgical treatment is indicated for cases with high intraventricular pressure (over 250mm water column) or those that have failed non-surgical treatment. For severe hydrocephalus, such as when the head circumference exceeds 50cm, with cortical atrophy thickness below 1cm, and severe functional disabilities or deformities, surgical treatment is not very effective. For infants under six months of age, this period is considered the golden treatment period, during which the majority of patients can benefit significantly from appropriate treatment.