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Cerebrospinal fluid flow. III. Pathological cerebrospinal fluid pulsations
1Department of Neuroradiology, University of Tübingen, Federal Republic of Germany.
Neuroradiology
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pulsations are typically normal in vascular disease but can decrease with certain conditions. Increased CSF pulsatile flow in the cerebral aqueduct is observed in aneurysms and normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Cardiac and respiratory cycles influence cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics.
- Understanding CSF pulsation is crucial for diagnosing neurological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate CSF pulsations using MRI in patients with various neurological conditions.
- To correlate CSF flow patterns with specific pathologies.
Main Methods:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was employed to assess CSF pulsations.
- 71 patients with diverse neurological conditions were included in the study.
Main Results:
- Most patients with arteriosclerotic occlusive vascular disease exhibited normal CSF pulsations.
- Decreased pulsatile flow was noted in arteriovenous malformations, intracranial air, and post-lumbar puncture.
- Increased pulsatile flow in the cerebral aqueduct was observed in patients with large aneurysms, syringomyelia, and normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).
- Cervical CSF flow was reduced or normal in NPH, suggesting impaired brain surface unfolding or subarachnoid space movement.
Conclusions:
- CSF pulsation patterns vary significantly with different neurological conditions.
- MRI is a valuable tool for assessing CSF dynamics and aiding in diagnosis.
- Abnormalities in CSF flow can indicate underlying pathologies such as NPH, aneurysms, or vascular disease.