What condition might an infant with hydrocephalus exhibit if there is a blockage?

An infant with hydrocephalus may exhibit what is known as "sunset gaze" when there is a blockage causing increased intracranial pressure. This phenomenon is characterized by the eyes appearing to gaze downwards, with the white part of the eye (sclera) appearing to show above the iris, resembling a sunset. This occurs because the excess cerebrospinal fluid in the brain can lead to changes in eye positioning and innervations, impacting the muscles that control eye gaze.

This clinical sign is seen in infants because their cranial structures are not fully developed, allowing for the manifestation of increased pressure more visibly than in older children or adults. It serves as an important indicator for healthcare providers to further investigate potential causes, such as an obstruction in the ventricular system that prevents normal drainage of cerebrospinal fluid. Hence, recognizing sunset gaze can be critical for diagnosis and prompt intervention in the management of hydrocephalus.