Is Hydrocephalus Hereditary?

When a child or family member is diagnosed with hydrocephalus, it’s natural to have questions about what caused it and whether other family members could be affected. So, if you’re asking, “Is hydrocephalus hereditary?” you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common hydrocephalus  questions our team of expert providers hears.

So, what’s the answer? Sometimes, but not always. Read on as the Link Integrated Healthcare team shares the causes of hydrocephalus and what a diagnosis may mean for your loved ones.

Learn more about hydrocephalus 

Hydrocephalus is a condition that occurs when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up within your brain's ventricles. As the fluid accumulates, it can increase pressure inside your skull and affect brain function.

While many people think of hydrocephalus as something that affects infants, the reality is that it can occur in infants, children, and even adults. It may be present at birth or develop later in life. Combined, it affects one million Americans.

In infants, hydrocephalus can cause rapid head growth, a bulging soft spot (fontanelle), excessive sleepiness, and irritability. It can even cause feeding difficulties. (There are many reasons why an infant may have feeding difficulties, so it’s important to not brush that symptom off.)

In older children and adults, symptoms may include:

• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Balance problems
• Difficulty chewing and swallowing
• Vision changes
• Memory difficulties
• Difficulty concentrating

These symptoms can develop whether the condition was inherited or due to other causes.

When hydrocephalus isn’t inherited 

Most cases of hydrocephalus aren’t directly inherited. Hydrocephalus can develop for many reasons, including:

• Congenital brain abnormalities
• Premature birth
• Brain hemorrhage
• Infections
• Tumors
• Head injuries
• Age-related neurological conditions

In many cases, there’s  no clear family history of the condition.

When hydrocephalus may be hereditary 

Although uncommon, some forms of hydrocephalus are linked to genetic changes that can be passed through families. For example, a rare condition called X-linked hydrocephalus is caused by mutations in the L1CAM gene. This form of hydrocephalus primarily affects males and can run in families.

In other words, hydrocephalus can run in families, but most cases aren’t hereditary. 

Does having one child with hydrocephalus mean future children will have it too?

Not necessarily. The answer depends on the underlying cause of the hydrocephalus. If the condition is related to a genetic disorder, there may be an increased risk for future pregnancies. 

However, many cases are not hereditary and don’t significantly increase the likelihood that another child will be affected.

That's why determining the cause of hydrocephalus is often an important part of the evaluation process.

Should genetic testing be considered?

Even though most cases of hydrocephalus aren’t hereditary, you might still consider genetic testing in some situations. For example, you might benefit from genetic testing if:

• Multiple family members have neurological conditions
• Hydrocephalus occurs alongside other congenital abnormalities
• You have concerns about other inherited syndromes
• You’re planning future pregnancies

Genetic counseling can help your family better understand potential risks and your available testing options.  

Get comprehensive hydrocephalus care 

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with hydrocephalus, the next step is to pinpoint the underlying cause as that’s an important part of treatment planning. The specialists here at Link Integrated Healthcare provide comprehensive neurological evaluations and can help determine whether additional testing or genetic counseling may be appropriate for you and your family.

While some rare forms of hydrocephalus have a genetic component, most cases aren’t directly inherited. If you have concerns about family history, future pregnancies, or genetic risk, talking with a neurological specialist here in Camarillo, Northridge, Oxnard, Simi Valley, or Santa Barbara, California, can provide answers and peace of mind. 

To learn more or schedule a consultation, call your preferred location or use our online booking system.