Anatomo-clinical correlations in normotensive hydrocephalus. Reports on three cases

J Neurol Sci. 1977 Sep;33(3):437-52. doi: 10.1016/0022-510x(77)90139-3.

Abstract

The brains of 3 adult subjects suffering from normotensive hydrocephalus have been examined pathologically. The diagnosis of normotensive hydrocephalus was based on clinical symptoms, pneumoencephalography and isotope cisternography, in 1 case integrated with the results of the constant-infusion manometric test. Part of the neuropathological findings were common to the 3 patients: leptomeningeal non-obstructive fibrosis, ventricular ependymal disruption, subependymal glial reaction, periventricular demyelination and spongiosis. Other neuropathological abnormalities were peculiar to each patient: leptomeningeal signs of previous subarachnoid haemorrhage; arteriosclerosis and multiple brain cystic infarcts; Alzheimer's plaques in the gray matter. The possible pathogenetic significance of the neuropathological findings summarized above in relation to the development of normotensive hydrocephalus is discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alzheimer Disease / complications
  • Brain / pathology*
  • Cerebrovascular Disorders / complications
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus / pathology*
  • Hydrocephalus, Normal Pressure / etiology
  • Hydrocephalus, Normal Pressure / pathology*
  • Intracranial Arteriosclerosis / complications
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pia Mater / pathology