
Hydrocephalus is the buildup of fluid in the cavities (ventricles) deep within the brain. The excess fluid increases the size of the ventricles and puts pressure on the brain. The term hydrocephalus is derived from the Greek words "hydro" meaning water and "cephalus" meaning head. Although hydrocephalus was once known as "water on the brain," the "water" is actually cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) — ...