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Possible role of the cavernous sinus veins in cerebrospinal fluid absorption

Miles Johnston1, Dianna Armstrong, Lena Koh

  • 1Neuroscience Program, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4N 3M5, Canada. miles.johnston@sunnybrook.ca

Cerebrospinal Fluid Research
|April 18, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) absorption occurs via unexpected routes, including extracranial lymphatics and pathways through the dura mater. These findings reveal novel CSF removal mechanisms outside the skull.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Anatomy
  • Physiology

Background:

  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) plays a crucial role in brain function and waste removal.
  • Understanding CSF absorption pathways is vital for neurological health and disease research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate and elucidate the anatomical pathways involved in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) absorption.
  • To identify potential unconventional routes for CSF removal from the subarachnoid space.

Main Methods:

  • Post-mortem infusion of Microfil into the cisterna magna of sheep.
  • Macroscopic and microscopic examination of cranial and extracranial tissues.
  • Tracing the distribution of Microfil within lymphatic and vascular structures.

Main Results:

  • Microfil uptake by extensive extracranial lymphatic vessels in olfactory turbinates.
  • Consistent passage of Microfil through the dura mater at the brain base.
  • Microfil observed in perivascular spaces of the cavernous sinus, internal carotid arteries, and surrounding the pituitary gland.
  • Microfil detected within endoneurial and epineurial spaces of the trigeminal nerve and associated lymphatics.

Conclusions:

  • Identified several unconventional pathways for CSF removal from the subarachnoid space.
  • Suggests CSF can be transported extracranially for absorption into peripheral veins and lymphatics.
  • Highlights the need for further research into the physiological significance of these newly identified CSF absorption routes.

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