Bobble-Head Doll Syndrome Caused by Aqueductal Web–Associated Obstructive Hydrocephalus in an Adult: A Case Report with Video

Rina Shibayama; Toshiyuki Enomoto; Dai Kawano; Hiromasa Kobayashi; Takashi Morishita; Koichiro Takemoto; Hiroshi Abe

doi:10.5334/tohm.1246

Bobble-Head Doll Syndrome Caused by Aqueductal Web–Associated Obstructive Hydrocephalus in an Adult: A Case Report with Video

Volume 16 (2026): Issue 1

By: Rina Shibayama, Toshiyuki Enomoto, Dai Kawano, Hiromasa Kobayashi , Takashi Morishita , Koichiro Takemoto and Hiroshi Abe

Open Access

|Oct 2026

Abstract

Background: Bobble-head doll syndrome (BHDS) is a rare movement disorder usually observed in children and associated with third ventricular lesions or hydrocephalus.

Case report: A 24-year-old man presented with progressive memory impairment, gait instability, urinary incontinence, and irregular no-no head tremor with a sensory trick. MRI revealed severe obstructive hydrocephalus due to an aqueductal web. Ventriculoperitoneal shunting was performed, and the tremor resolved within one week. Neurological symptoms improved, and he remained independent 18 months after surgery.

Discussion: Adult BHDS is extremely rare. Early recognition and appropriate CSF diversion can provide favorable outcomes.

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Articles in this issue

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5334/tohm.1246 | Journal eISSN: 2160-8288

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Language: English

Page range: 54 - 54

Submitted on: Jun 18, 2026

Accepted on: Sep 27, 2026

Published on: Oct 8, 2026

Published by: Ubiquity Press

In partnership with: Paradigm Publishing Services

Keywords:

Bobble-head doll syndrome,

no-no tremor,

hydrocephalus,

aqueductal web

© 2026 Rina Shibayama, Toshiyuki Enomoto, Dai Kawano, Hiromasa Kobayashi, Takashi Morishita, Koichiro Takemoto, Hiroshi Abe, published by Ubiquity Press
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Volume 16 (2026): Issue 1