Providence, RI – The Norman Prince Neurosciences Institute has opened the Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) Multidisciplinary Center. The Center is located at the Rhode Island Hospital Ambulatory Patient Center (APC) on the sixth floor and is currently accepting referrals.
NPH is an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain’s cavities, called ventricles. This happens when the normal flow of CSF throughout the brain and spinal cord is blocked, causing neurological symptoms. NPH can occur in individuals of any age but is most common in older adults. The clinic currently treats about 10 patients per month and expects to provide services for approximately 120 individuals per year.
“The Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Multidisciplinary Center at the Norman Prince Neurosciences Institute is one of the few in New England with the experience and expertise needed to provide effective diagnosis and personalized care for those with NPH,” said Umer Akbar, MD, director, Rhode Island Hospital Movement Disorders Program. “Our team of neurologists, neurosurgeons, physical therapists, and neuropsychologists is highly skilled in diagnosing and treating NPH.”
NPH is treatable but can be mistaken for other neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease. An early diagnosis and appropriate treatment may result in improved quality of life.
“Symptoms of NPH are complex and can be like other memory and movement disorders. Our team will evaluate patients in a comprehensive one-day visit to our center and provide a diagnosis and discuss treatment options,” said Petra Klinge, MD, PhD, director, CSF Disorders of the Brain and Spine, Rhode Island Hospital.
Symptoms of NPH may include memory and cognitive impairment, problems with walking or a sensation that one’s feet feel “stuck,” and impaired bladder control. Because NPH is a chronic condition, its symptoms can develop slowly over months to years. The cause of NPH is currently unknown.
For more information on the NPH Multidisciplinary program at Rhode Island Hospital, visit https://www.lifespan.org/locations/normal-pressure-hydrocephalus-multidisciplinary-clinic or call 401-444-6528.