Physiotherapeutic management of Hydrocephalus-Ex vacuo: A Case Report
Correspondence Address :
Dr. KM Krishna Prasad,
Assistant Professor, Nitte Institute of Physiotherapy, NITTE (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru-575018, Karantaka, India.
E-mail: krinshnapr@nitte.edu.in
Hydrocephalus Ex-vacuo refers to an elevated volume with no increasing Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) pressure, particularly in instances of diminished brain tissue. Since there is no increased intracranial pressure in Hydrocephalus Ex-vacuo, few general symptoms such as irritability, drowsiness, and even larger head presentation can be absent compared to congenital hydrocephalus. The current case study presents a one-year-old male child exhibiting delays in developmental milestones, including poor head and trunk control, associated with a history of prenatal bleeding and subsequent birth complications. Despite a seemingly normal birth, the child experienced postnatal complications such as vomiting, seizures, and abdominal distension, leading to a 15-day Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) stay. Persistent delays prompted medical consultations, culminating in a referral for physiotherapy following Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) findings indicative of hydrocephalus ex-vacuo. Clinical assessments revealed a restricted range of motion, muscle tightness in the lower extremities, and poor muscle control and reflex persistence. Imaging confirmed ventricular enlargement consistent with Hydrocephalus Ex-vacuo, necessitating targeted physiotherapy interventions. Therapeutic strategies focused on promoting head and trunk control through prone positioning, bolster support, and dynamic exercises utilising physio balls. Progressive interventions facilitated significant improvements within six months, highlighting the efficacy of early rehabilitation and parental involvement in achieving motor milestones. The present case underscores the importance of timely diagnosis, multidisciplinary collaboration, and rehabilitative interventions in optimising outcomes for children with hydrocephalus ex-vacuo. Further research is warranted to explore additional therapeutic modalities and long-term prognostic indicators for this patient population.
Congenital, Developmental delay, Infant, Physical therapy, Ventricular enlargement
DOI: 10.7860/JCDR/2024/69076.19542
Date of Submission: Feb 09, 2024
Date of Peer Review: Feb 29, 2024
Date of Acceptance: May 01, 2024
Date of Publishing: Jun 01, 2024
AUTHOR DECLARATION:
• Financial or Other Competing Interests: None
• Was informed consent obtained from the subjects involved in the study? Yes
• For any images presented appropriate consent has been obtained from the subjects. Yes
PLAGIARISM CHECKING METHODS:
• Plagiarism X-checker: Feb 09, 2024
• Manual Googling: Mar 12, 2024
• iThenticate Software: Apr 27, 2024 (8%)
ETYMOLOGY: Author Origin
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