Current practice patterns among Indian neurologists in the Evaluation and management of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: A nationwide cross‐sectional survey

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Authors: Arunmozhimaran Elavarasi, Sagar Poudel, Deepa Dash, Alfonso Fasano, Pramod Kumar Pal, Debashish Chowdhury, Sanjay Pandey, Soaham Desai, Hrishikesh Kumar, Prashanth Lingappa Kukkle, Divya KP, Ajith Cherian
+11 more Rajeswari Aghoram, Rukmini Mridula Kandadai, Pankaj Agarwal, Niraj Kumar, Anand Kumar, Saranya B Gomathy, Animesh Das, Rajesh Kumar Singh, Deepti Vibha, Jasmine Parihar, Manjari Tripathi
Cited by: 4
References: 18

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This cross-sectional study explores the diagnostic and management practices of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) in India. METHODS: A 16-question online survey based on the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys checklist was disseminated via closed social media and academic groups. RESULTS: A total of 59 neurologists responded. There was significant variability in how the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tap test (TT) was implemented. Although 95% of practitioners performed a CSF TT before referring patients for surgery, there were differences in the volume of CSF removed, the assessment tools used, thresholds, and the timing of post-test evaluations. Notably, 36% of neurologists relied on subjective assessment instead of objective scoring to determine CSF TT responsiveness. One-third still considered surgical referral even if the CSF TT was negative, especially when imaging was strongly suggestive of the diagnosis. CONCLUSION: This study highlights considerable heterogeneity in the evaluation of NPH in India. We need evidence-based practice parameters to ensure accurate diagnosis, informed treatment decisions, and improved patient outcomes.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Cerebrospinal fluid and hydrocephalus Fetal and Pediatric Neurological Disorders Intracerebral and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Research

Publication details

Journal / source
Alzheimer s & Dementia
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
22
Issue
7
Pages
e71584–e71584
Publication date
1 July 2026
Language
EN