“This disease is a condition in which there is an abnormal build up of CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) in the cavities (ventricles) of the brain.
The medical condition for babies born with swollen heads is known as “Hydrocephalus.” Such a condition is not inheritable.
So says the Director General of the Ministry of Health, Leausa Dr. Take Naseri, whose opinion was sought following a spike in the number of cases in Samoa.
Just this week, two babies with similar conditions approached the Samoa Observer for assistance. Their families are looking at taking them overseas for medical treatment.
According to the Samoa Victim Support Group, there are six other similar cases, prompting questions as to why the sudden surge in a number of such cases.
Yesterday, the Director of Health said there is no particular cause for the condition.
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“Its contents are deformities and there is no particular cause,” Leausa said adding that “the causes of hydrocephalus are still not well understood.”
“It may result from inherited genetic abnormalities (such as the genetic defect that causes aqueduct stenosis) or developmental disorders (such as those associated with neural tube defects including spina bifida and encephalocele).”
Other possible causes include complications of premature birth such as intra-ventricular haemorrhage, diseases such as meningitis, tumours, traumatic
“This disease is a condition in which there is an abnormal build up of CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) in the cavities (ventricles) of the brain.”
“The build-ups is often caused by an obstruction which prevents proper fluid drainage. The fluid build-ups can raise intracranial pressure inside the skull which compresses surrounding brain tissue, possibly causing progressive enlargement of the head, convulsions, and brain damage.”
But “hydrocephalus can be fatal if left untreated,” Leausa pointed out.
He said hydrocephalus can be visible during the mother’s ultrasound scan and in that case, they will be warned.
Leausa also confirmed that the hospital scanner is broken and they are waiting for a part to arrive.
“So right now the hospital has no scanner,” he said. “We are waiting for the particular part to arrive and also a new scanner because you see these are advanced technology and so it is very expensive.”
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“Manu’s just the same. He stays with some old friends and they go outside playing touch rugby together. We were playing touch rugby together in our village at home”