The role of MRI in pediatric obstructive hydrocephalus: An update

Hydrocephalus can be defined as ventriculomegaly secondary to excessive increment of cerebrospinal fluid in ventricular system. The diagnosis of hydrocephalus is not a challenge presently, but the exact definition of this entity and its etiology is often difficult. Early detection of the etiology of hydrocephalus is vital for accurate and early treatment. In childhood, obstructive hydrocephalus is the most common type of hydrocephalus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the radiological method providing the maximal clinically useful data needed for reaching the precise diagnosis and initiating the correct treatment. In this review, we discuss the role of MRI in the evaluation of pediatric obstructive hydrocephalus patients based on new techniques and recent literature.