DIAGNOSTIC PERSPECTIVES ON INFANT HYDROCEPHALUS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF MDCT AND MRI

Abstract

Background: Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinalfluid within the brain's ventricles, often leading to increased intracranial pressure and neurological complications. Accurate diagnosis and identification of underlying causes are essential for effective management.

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the MDCT Brain Plain and MRI findings in infants presenting with hydrocephalous.

Methodology: A total of 78 participants with hydrocephalus were included in this study. MRI and MDCT brain plain were performed. Frequency analysis, cross tabulations and chi-square tests were performed.

Results: Gender distribution showed that 64.1% were males and 35.9% were females. The age distribution indicated that the majority were around 5 months old (23.1%), with 6 months being the least common (2.6%). Temporal Horns were observed in 66.7% and 61.5% of infants in CT and MRI scans, respectively. The size of the 3rd ventricle was smaller than 3mm in 79.5% (CT) and 74.4% (MRI) scans. Lateral ventricle involvement was present in 94.9% (CT) and 84.6% (MRI) scans. Absence of Corpus Callosum, Arnold Chiari Syndrome, encephalitis, brain tumors, and meningitis showed varying prevalencerates in both CT and MRI scans. Statistical tests confirmed significant associations between certain findings.

Conclusion: The outcomes emphasize that both MDCT brain plain and MRI are valuable tools for diagnosing and planning treatment for infants with hydrocephalus, providing essential information for effective management. The study's findings suggest that the alignment between MDCT brain plain and MRI scans holds potential for further research, including investigating the combination or refinement of techniques for improved diagnostic accuracy and patient care. In summary, this research enhances our knowledge about hydrocephalus, demonstrates the practical utility of both imaging methods, and points towards promising avenues for future advancements in this field.