Which signs are typical of shunt malfunction in a child with hydrocephalus?

• A. Headache, vomiting, lethargy or irritability
• B. Seizures only
• C. Weight gain with increased appetite
• D. Improved energy

Answer: (A)

When a shunt malfunctions, pressure inside the head rises, so the most common signs in a child are symptoms of increased intracranial pressure. Headache, vomiting, and changes in alertness—such as lethargy or irritability—reflect this pressure build-up and the brain’s response to it. Seizures can occur with high pressure but are not the typical early sign, and weight gain with increased appetite or feeling unusually energetic would not fit this pattern. If these symptoms appear, it’s an emergency and needs prompt medical evaluation.