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cerebrospinal

Brain & Spinal Fluid

Plain-language definition

Relating to the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis (via lumbar puncture) helps diagnose MS, infections, and IIH.

Where this term comes up

  • Intracranial hypotension occurs when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks from the spinal canal, causing low pressure inside the skull.

    Condition · Intracranial Hypotension

  • A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is an implanted drainage system for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

    Treatment · VP Shunt (Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt)

  • Acetazolamide (brand name Diamox) is a medication that reduces the production of cerebrospinal fluid, making it particularly useful for treating idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH).

    Medication · Acetazolamide (Diamox)

Category
Clinical term
Also written as
No alternate forms listed.

Clinical terms are words clinicians use to describe symptoms, signs, risk factors, or patterns seen during evaluation.

Related glossary terms

  • CSF

    Cerebrospinal Fluid

  • IIH

    Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

  • papilledema

    Swelling of the Optic Nerve from Brain Pressure

  • MRI

    Magnetic Resonance Imaging

  • OCT

    Optical Coherence Tomography

  • choroid

    Vascular Layer Behind Retina

A note on medical context

A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.