What causes hydrocephalus in the fetus during mid-pregnancy?

Fetal hydrocephalus in the second trimester is mainly caused by genetic factors, infection, congenital developmental abnormalities and other reasons. Targeted treatment or intervention measures should be taken according to the cause, and pregnancy management should be carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor.

1. Genetic factors

Some fetal hydrocephalus is caused by genetic diseases or gene mutations, such as X-linked recessive hereditary hydrocephalus or chromosomal abnormalities such as trisomy 21. If there is a family history, the couple should receive genetic counseling before or during pregnancy, and use amniocentesis or non-invasive DNA testing to confirm whether the fetus has related genetic problems.

2 Infectious factors

Maternal infection during pregnancy, especially TORCH infection, i.e. Toxoplasma, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, etc., may directly affect the development of the fetal central nervous system and lead to hydrocephalus. To prevent infection, pregnant women should avoid contact with infection sources, get relevant vaccines on time, and have regular prenatal checkups for early detection and early intervention.

3 Congenital developmental abnormalities

Abnormal fetal brain development, such as aqueductal stenosis, which is a blockage in the tubes connecting the ventricles, can cause hydrocephalus. Fetal neural tube defects such as spina bifida may also interfere with normal cerebrospinal fluid circulation. In these cases, your doctor may recommend high-resolution ultrasound or fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) during the second trimester to assess the extent of the lesion and decide on the next intervention.

4. Trauma or other pathological problems

Although rare, intraventricular hemorrhage may occur due to fetal or fetal trauma or severe impact on the mother, leading to hydrocephalus. Tumors or cysts compressing the ventricular system may also be one of the causes. The doctor will make a comprehensive assessment based on the results of imaging examinations and give personalized treatment recommendations.

Fetal hydrocephalus can be mild or severe, and its progress needs to be monitored regularly. If the hydrocephalus is mild and the cause is clear, it may only require observation and active management of the pregnancy; if the condition is severe and the fetal prognosis is poor, the doctor may recommend termination of pregnancy. To protect the health of mother and child, once fetal hydrocephalus is discovered, a joint consultation with obstetricians, pediatricians, and neurosurgeons should be sought as soon as possible, and follow-up treatment should be strictly carried out according to the doctor's instructions. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular prenatal check-ups during pregnancy are crucial to reducing the risk of hydrocephalus and other risks.