Ventriculitis

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Ventriculitis

Ventriculitis (pronounced ven-trik-yoo-LIE-tis) is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the ventricles in the brain.

Etymology

The term "Ventriculitis" is derived from the Latin word "ventriculus," which means "small belly" or "cavity," and the Greek suffix "-itis," which denotes inflammation.

Definition

Ventriculitis is a serious infection or inflammation of the ventricles that can occur after surgery or due to an infection elsewhere in the body. The ventricles are fluid-filled cavities in the brain that produce and circulate cerebrospinal fluid.

Symptoms

Symptoms of ventriculitis can include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, and changes in mental status. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, coma, or even death.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ventriculitis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI or CT scan, and may also include a lumbar puncture to examine the cerebrospinal fluid.

Treatment

Treatment for ventriculitis usually involves antibiotics to fight the infection, and may also include steroids to reduce inflammation. In some cases, surgery may be required to drain the ventricles or to insert a shunt to relieve pressure.

Related Terms

  • Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain
  • Meningitis: Inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord
  • Neurology: The branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the nervous system
  • Neurosurgery: The surgical specialty involved in the treatment of disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves

External links

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