Cerebrospinal Fluid and Hydrocephalus: Physiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Abstract

Artwork courtesy of Julie Gilbert Pollard. Impatiens by the Creek (detail). Watercolor on paper, 12" × 12". Background: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is found around and inside the brain and vertebral column. CSF plays a crucial role in the protection and homeostasis of neural tissue. Methods: Key points on the physiology of CSF as well as the diagnostic and treatment options for hydrocephalus are discussed. Results: Understanding the fundamentals of the production, absorption, dynamics, and pathophysiology of CSF is crucial for addressing hydrocephalus. Shunts and endoscopic third ventriculostomy have changed the therapeutic landscape of hydrocephalus. Conclusions: The treatment of hydrocephalus in adults and children represents a large part of everyday practice for the neurologist, both in benign cases and cancer-related diagnoses. Cerebrospinal Fluid Production Approximately 70% of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is produced by the choroid plexus of the lateral ventricles and the tela choroidea of the third and fourth ventricles. 1 There is also extrachoroidal secretion of CSF by the epithelium of the ependyma and by the capillaries via the blood-brain barrier. Choroid plexus can develop as early as the 41st day in the embryo. 2 In general, the volume of CSF in an adult is approximately 150 mL (125 mL in the subarachnoid space, 25 mL

CT Image under Improved Fuzzy C-Means Clustering Algorithm for Evaluation of the Relationship between Cerebrospinal Fluid Change and Communicating Hydrocephalus after Decompressive Craniectomy in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury

“…Currently, it is believed that cerebrospinal fluid is mainly produced and secreted by choroid plexus tissues distributed on the ventricular wall [20][21][22]. Traffic hydrocephalus refers to the excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricular system or subarachnoid space [23].…”

Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of continuous cerebrospinal fluid drainage on keyhole surgery during the perioperative period

“…To further the research reliability and reference ability, research methods and designs should be improved in the future. Continuous lumbar pool CSF drainage is routinely used to treat aSAH, and can reduce mortality and complications among patients with this condition (16,17). Locking neurosurgery is suitable for patients with intracranial aneurysm, hypertension, cerebral hemorrhage, and other diseases.…”

A Nanometer Resolution Wearable Wireless Medical Device for Non Invasive Intracranial Pressure Monitoring

“…Intracranial pressure (ICP) can be higher than normal in cases of traumatic brain injury, stroke, tumors, hydrocephalus, and other medical conditions [28]- [31]. Intracranial hyperten-sion is often an emergency situation that can cause severe impairments and even death.…”