Epilepsy is common in people with hydrocephalus. Of individuals with shunted hydrocephalus, an estimated 20% have epilepsy (Klepper et al., 1998<\/a>). Epilepsy<\/strong> is a brain disorder that causes unprovoked, recurring seizures. A person experiences a seizure<\/strong> when there is excessive and abnormal brain cell activity. This often produces uncontrolled movements, decreased responsiveness, and\/or unconsciousness.<\/p>\n In the United States, it is estimated that 1.2% of the population has epilepsy (Zack & Kobau, 2017). For people with shunted hydrocephalus, the risk of having epilepsy is related to the type or cause of hydrocephalus and to complications of its treatment.<\/p>\n Past studies have shown:<\/p>\n Some studies have compared the rates of epilepsy before and after shunt placement. Studies suggest that shunt placement is associated with epilepsy; however, this may be because individuals with more severe hydrocephalus are more likely to get shunted and also to have epilepsy (Larsson et al., 2017; Tully et al., 2016; Bourgeois et al., 1999<\/a>). Factors that alter the risk for developing epilepsy include the presence of a brain malformation (excluding Chiari II), repeated brain surgeries, and surgical infection (Tully et al., 2016; Bourgeois et al., 1999<\/a>).<\/p>\n Past studies have shown:<\/p>\n The relationship between hydrocephalus and epilepsy can also work in the other direction: Some patients with epilepsy who undergo a surgical procedure called functional hemispherectomy develop hydrocephalus as a consequence of the surgery. A significant portion of these patients develop hydrocephalus on a delayed basis, indicating the need for long-term surveillance (Lew et al., 2013<\/a>).<\/p>\n Most children and adults with hydrocephalus and epilepsy take medication to control the seizures; however, approximately 30% of patients fail to respond to drug treatment (Bourgeois et al., 1999<\/a>). This is similar to the epileptic population in general (Laxer et al., 2014<\/a>; Kwan & Brodie, 2000<\/a>). For these patients, surgical management of epilepsy may be an option.<\/p>\n For more information on epilepsy\/seizures and hydrocephalus, follow the links provided in the text. This article is designed to provide helpful information on the subjects discussed. It is not intended as a substitute for treatment advice from a medical professional. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition, consult your doctor.<\/em><\/p>\n\r\n
\nHow Common Is Epilepsy in People With Hydrocephalus?<\/h2>\n
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\nDoes Shunt Placement Affect Epilepsy Risk?<\/h2>\n
\nFactors That Increase Seizure Risk in Hydrocephalus<\/h2>\n
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\nWhen Epilepsy Surgery Leads to Hydrocephalus<\/h2>\n
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\nFor additional support and educational resources, we encourage you to contact the Epilepsy Foundation<\/a>\u00a0or the Brain Recovery Project<\/a>.<\/p>\n
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