The IHIWG (International Hydrocephalus Imaging Working Group) consists of neuroradiologists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, bioengineers, and basic scientists who meet twice a year in conjunction with ASNR and ISHCSF (International Society for Hydrocephalus and CSF Disorders) for a 2-day meeting that addresses all forms of hydrocephalus including DESH (Disproportionately Enlarged Subarachnoid Space Hydrocephalus) with emphasis on imaging NPH. Additionally, the group discusses phase contrast techniques to measure blood and CSF flow out of the brain and to dynamically model it and predict intracranial pressure. Reviews CSF production and resorption, role of aquaporins, and CSF flow measurements to study Chiari I malformations as well as potential sources of error in our measurements are also scheduled.

During the 2013 meeting in San Diego, infantile hydrocephalus and benign external hydrocephalus and the role of the latter as a potential cause of NPH later in life will be addressed.  The utility of DTI and MR elastography in NPH and related topics such as aqueductal stenosis and pseudotumor cerebri will be discussed and a debate of the value of imaging vs. detailed clinical assessment vs. a high volume tap test vs. saline infusion tests to select NPH patients for shunting will be held.

The meeting was held this year in New York City during the last part of the ASNR annual meeting and was a success.  Next year in San Diego,  the IHIWG will meet for 2 complete days during Thursday and Friday.  Due to limited space, ASNR recommends reserving your seat early; a very modest registration fee will be charged.  For information please contact: Valerie Geisendorfer at: vgeisendorfer@asnr.org