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Questions posted in the
Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Question Title: normal pressure hydrocephalusForum: Neurology Forum
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Re: normal pressure hydrocephalusPosted by CCF Neuro MD on July 12, 1997 at 21:26:31: In Reply to: normal pressure hydrocephalus posted by Ana M. Ibarra on July 03, 1997 at 19:41:25:
Hi, Ana, Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a common neurological condiition in the elder population. The classic clinical presentation is a group of three symptoms so called triad: a slowly progressive unsteady gait, impairment of mental function, and urinary incontinence. As far as the treatment of NPH, the development of surgical shunting has opened the way to success. The long term results have been rather promising and gratifying with a complete and near complete restoration of gait and, to a large extend, mental function. Regarding your concern on psychological changes specifically, I did a literature search and found some interesting work on this issure. The psychological prognosis largely depends on the cause of the condition and the length of the disease course. The longer the symptoms persisted before the proper treatment was started, the worse the prognosis and the less chance there is to go back to his baseline. In one study, the patients were assessed with a group of neuropsychological tests before a shunting procedure. The best improvement was recorded in attention, visuospatial and intellectual functions. The authers concluded that mental function impairment can be reversable if proper selection for neurosurgical treatment is made. Therefore, I would recommand your father be fully evaluated as soon as possible to explore the treatment options. This can be done at his neurologist's office, or if you prefer, at our department at the Cleveland Clinic. Please call toll free (800) 223-2273 ext. 45559 or (216) 444-5559 for an appointment. This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for the diagnostic and treatment options for your specific medical condition.
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