[A rare cause of amenorrhea: stenosis of the aqueduct of Sylvius. Apropos of 3 cases. Cure by ventriculo-atrial shunt].

Chronic hydrocephalus by aqueductal stenosis may result in endocrine dysfunction. Primary or secondary amenorrhea may be the only symptom. Endocrine function tests are usually normal, except for low estrogen levels, pointing to isolated functional hypothalamic amenorrhea. Roentgenologic investigations ensure diagnosis in all cases: skull films show enlargement and/or flattening of the sella turcica and digitate impressions; computed tomography shows dilatation of lateral and third ventricles. This rare cause of amenorrhea must be kept in mind as it can be easily diagnosed and successfully treated by atrioventricular shunt.