Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 3, 2026
09:14
Pre-Chiasmatic, Single Injection of Autologous Blood to Induce Experimental Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in a Rat Model
Published on: June 18, 2021
Chronic intracranial hypotension
R A Mackenzie1, A K Lethlean, R Shnier
1Institute of Neurological Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, High Street, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia.
Summary
A 49-year-old male experienced chronic headaches due to a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak from a thoracic arachnoid cyst. Surgical repair resolved his headaches and other symptoms, suggesting a long-term effect of the initial injury.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Intracranial hypotension can result from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage.
- While often self-limiting, some CSF leaks require surgical intervention.
- Chronic intracranial hypotension may arise from inadequately sealed defects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of chronic intracranial hypotension caused by a leaking thoracic extradural arachnoid cyst.
- To highlight the potential for delayed symptom onset and resolution following surgical repair.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 49-year-old male with a 10-month history of headache.
- Diagnosis of a leaking thoracic extradural arachnoid cyst.
- Surgical repair of the arachnoid cyst.
Main Results:
- Successful surgical repair of the thoracic extradural arachnoid cyst.
- Complete resolution of recent headaches and chronic alcohol-related headaches.
- Improvement in long-standing anemia and tinnitus hyperacusis.
Conclusions:
- A thoracic extradural arachnoid cyst can cause chronic intracranial hypotension and diverse symptoms.
- Surgical repair can effectively treat symptoms of chronic intracranial hypotension.
- A remote injury may initiate a CSF leak leading to long-term complications.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Increased Intracranial Pressure l: Introduction
Intracranial hypertension is a sustained elevation of intracranial pressure (ICP) above 22 mm Hg. In supine adults, normal ICP is ~7–15 mm Hg.The rigid, nonexpandable cranium contains three components—brain tissue, blood, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)—that total ~1,700 mL in a typical adult: 1,400 mL brain (~80%), 150 mL blood (~10%), and 150 mL CSF (~10%). According to the Monro–Kellie doctrine, total intracranial volume is effectively fixed. When one component expands, CSF and venous blood...
01:29Increased Intracranial Pressure ll: Pathophysiology
Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) refers to a potentially life-threatening rise in pressure inside the skull. This usually happens when there is a major change in the volume of brain tissue, blood, or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) — the three components inside the skull. According to the Monro-Kellie doctrine, if the volume of one component increases, the volumes of the other components must decrease to maintain normal pressure. If this does not happen, ICP rises.The process often begins with...
01:30Alterations in Blood Pressure
Alterations in blood pressure, such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypotension (low blood pressure), significantly affect human health. Understanding these conditions' classifications, causes, and symptoms is essential for effective management and treatment.
Hypertension (High blood pressure)
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure readings consistently exceed the normal range. It is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure (the top number, indicating pressure while the heart beats)...
Hypertension (High blood pressure)
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure readings consistently exceed the normal range. It is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure (the top number, indicating pressure while the heart beats)...
01:17Hemorrhagic Stroke l: Introduction
A hemorrhagic stroke is an acute neurological event that occurs when a weakened cerebral blood vessel ruptures, allowing blood to accumulate within or around the brain. The sudden release of blood forms a focal hematoma that increases intracranial pressure, displaces neural tissue, and can obstruct cerebrospinal fluid pathways. These effects may be compounded by intraventricular extension of the hemorrhage, cerebral edema, or compression of adjacent structures, all of which contribute to...
01:26Transient Ischemic Attack l: Introduction
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a brief episode of neurological dysfunction caused by a temporary, focal reduction in cerebral blood flow. Although symptoms resemble those of an ischemic stroke, the interruption in perfusion is short-lived and does not cause permanent infarction. TIAs are clinically important because they often serve as early warning events for future stroke.Mechanisms of Transient Cerebral IschemiaTransient cerebral ischemia may arise through several mechanisms. One...
01:21Cytotoxic Edema: Pathophysiology
Cytotoxic edema is a form of cerebral edema characterized by intracellular swelling of neurons, astrocytes, and other glial cells. It develops when the mechanisms responsible for maintaining ionic gradients across the cell membrane become impaired. Under normal physiological conditions, the sodium–potassium ATPase actively transports sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions into the cell, preserving osmotic balance and enabling electrical signaling. This pump requires a continuous supply...