Which symptoms are characteristic of obstructive hydrocephalus caused by a pineal gland mass?

Obstructive hydrocephalus occurs when the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is blocked, leading to an accumulation of CSF in the ventricles of the brain. A mass in the pineal gland, such as a tumor, can obstruct the aqueduct of Sylvius, which is the narrow passage between the third and fourth ventricles, resulting in increased intracranial pressure.

Headaches and vomiting are classic symptoms associated with this condition. The headache can stem from increased pressure inside the cranial cavity, often described as a dull, persistent pain that may worsen with changes in position or during activity. Vomiting often occurs as a result of increased intracranial pressure and irritation of the brain's vomiting centers, leading to non-bilious projectile vomiting in severe cases.

The other options present symptoms that are not typically related to the mechanism of obstructive hydrocephalus caused by a pineal gland mass. Joint pain and rash, for example, could suggest autoimmune conditions or infections, while seizures and dizziness might arise from a variety of neurological issues but do not specifically indicate obstructive hydrocephalus. Chest pain and cough are more aligned with pulmonary conditions or cardiac issues, making them unlikely in this context.