What does enlarged lateral ventricles mean?

Mild enlargement of the lateral ventricles is a structural brain abnormality observed in neuropsychiatric disorders that are thought to be the result of abnormal prenatal brain development, including schizophrenia (1, 2), autism (3), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder(4, 5).

What happens when ventricles are dilated?

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition in which the left ventricle, the heart’s main pumping chamber, is enlarged (dilated). As the chamber gets bigger, its thick muscular wall stretches, becoming thinner and weaker. This affects the heart’s ability to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body.

Should I be worried about mild ventriculomegaly?

Confirmation that mild ventriculomegaly is isolated increases the likelihood that long-term neurodevelopment will be normal, and identification of other CNS malformations makes it more likely that the fetus will have neurologic abnormalities, including developmental delay.

What can cause enlarged ventricles?

Hydrocephalus

  • Hydrocephalus is the abnormal enlargement of the brain cavities (ventricles) caused by a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
  • Hydrocephalus can be caused by problems with CSF secretion, CSF flow or CSF absorption.

Why do ventricles enlarge?

The ventricles enlarge to handle the increased volume of CSF, thus compressing the brain from within and eventually damaging or destroying the brain tissue.

What causes ventricular dilation?

Many different causes can lead to DCM, such as: Infections, such as HIV and Lyme disease. Autoimmune disease, such as polymyositis. Alcohol abuse, cocaine use, exposure to heavy metals, and certain chemotherapy drugs.

Can you live a normal life with dilated cardiomyopathy?

Many people with dilated cardiomyopathy have no symptoms. Some that do have only minor ones, and live a normal life. Others develop symptoms that may get worse as their heart gets sicker.

How are enlarged ventricles treated?

Mildly enlarged ventricles often need no treatment. Hydrocephalus can be treated soon after birth with a procedure that creates a pathway for extra fluid to drain out of the brain.