Accelerating critical research, expanding patient support and education, and raising public awareness about hydrocephalus.

Please join Amanda Garzon, National Director of Program Services and Communication for the Hydrocephalus Association, as she discusses the signs, symptoms, and treatment of hydrocephalus, its impact on families and the community, and the urgent need for research into better treatment options.

Hydrocephalus is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within cavities in the brain called ventricles. Cerebrospinal fluid is produced in the ventricles and in the choroid plexus. It circulates through the ventricular system in the brain and is absorbed into the bloodstream. As the CSF builds up, it causes the ventricles to enlarge and the pressure inside the head to increase. The only way to relieve this pressure is through brain surgery, most often involving the placement of a cerebral shunt, a medical device with an extremely high failure rate. An estimated 50% of shunts in the pediatric population fail within two years of placement, and most hydrocephalus patients can expect repeated neurosurgical operations throughout their lives.

Hydrocephalus means a lifetime of uncertainty for the families and individuals who are affected by the condition. Naturally, they want to learn more about what the condition entails and what treatments are available. Hydrocephalus affects a wide range of people, from infants and  children to young, middle-aged and older adults.

• Over 1,000,000 people in the United States currently live with hydrocephalus.

• For every 1,000 babies born in this country, one to two will have hydrocephalus.

• Hydrocephalus is the most common reason for brain surgery in children.

• It is estimated that more than 700,000 seniors Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), but are often misdiagnosed with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's Disease. 

RSVP for an event reminder. Attendance is on a first come, first served basis.

This event is part of the Arlington Public Library's Information is the Best Medicine Week.

• Location campus Central Library
• Audience:
  • Good for Adults Age 55+
  • Good for Families
  • Good for Parents
• Categories:
  • Health and Fitness