What is the definition of ventriculomegaly?

Ventriculomegaly is the name of a medical condition in which there is an abnormal enlargement of a brain's ventricle. This word derives from the base word "ventricle" and the suffix "megaly," which finds use in medical terms to describe enlargement of any body part.

Ventriculomegaly occurs when cerebrospinal fluid, a clear liquid that protects the brain and spinal cord, becomes trapped in the ventricles, or spaces, of the brain. The cerebrospinal fluid usually becomes trapped in the ventricle due to a defect in the body's circulation and absorption of this fluid. This defect is known as hydrocephalus. Ventriculomegaly can cause abnormally rapid head growth, eye issues and other developmental problems.