Alzheimer Disease · Pathology

In the context of AD, what is 'hydrocephalus ex vacuo'?

  1. Increased intracranial pressure due to CSF overproduction
  2. Compensatory ventricular enlargement due to loss of brain parenchyma
  3. Obstruction of the Aqueduct of Sylvius by amyloid plaques
  4. Shrinkage of the ventricles due to brain swelling
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Correct answer: Compensatory ventricular enlargement due to loss of brain parenchyma

As the brain undergoes significant atrophy in AD, the ventricles enlarge to fill the space previously occupied by brain tissue. This is not due to increased pressure, but is a secondary 'ex vacuo' effect.

Difficulty: Medium Question 16 of 20

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