What is a likely consequence of obstruction to cerebrospinal fluid absorption?

Obstruction to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) absorption typically leads to hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by an accumulation of CSF within the ventricles of the brain. This occurs because CSF is produced in the choroid plexus and circulates through the ventricles and subarachnoid space, eventually being absorbed into the bloodstream through the arachnoid granulations. When there is an obstruction in the pathways, whether due to structural abnormalities, inflammation, or other factors, the normal flow and absorption of CSF are disrupted.

As a result, the accumulated fluid can increase intracranial pressure, which in turn can lead to various neurological complications if not addressed. Symptoms of hydrocephalus can include an enlarged head in infants, developmental delays, headaches, and visual disturbances. It is a clear result of impaired absorption rather than production issues, differentiating it from conditions like encephalitis, which primarily involves inflammation of the brain, or subarachnoid hemorrhage, which is bleeding in the subarachnoid space. Cerebral edema refers to fluid accumulation in brain tissue itself rather than the ventricular system and does not arise specifically from CSF absorption issues.