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A Detailed Protocol for Physiological Parameters Acquisition and Analysis in Neurosurgical Critical Patients
Published on: October 17, 2017
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Cerebrospinal fluid pressure in adults
Sarah C M Lee1, Christian J Lueck
1Department of Neurology (SCML, CJL), The Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australia; Department of Neuroscience (SCML), Box Hill Hospital, Box Hill, Australia; and Australian National University Medical School (CJL), Canberra, Australia.
Summary
Lumbar puncture (LP) measures intracranial pressure (ICP) for diagnosis. Normal ICP in adults is 6-25 cmH2O, but clinical context is crucial due to individual variability.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Lumbar puncture (LP) is a key diagnostic tool for measuring intracranial pressure (ICP).
- Accurate ICP measurement is vital for patient diagnosis and management.
- Understanding factors influencing LP results is essential for clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide neuro-ophthalmologists with current information on factors affecting LP pressure measurements.
- To clarify the normal range of ICP and its variability.
- To emphasize the importance of clinical context in interpreting LP results.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review using PubMed and Medline.
- Scanning of relevant medical journals for recent publications.
- Secondary referencing and consultation with clinicians.
Main Results:
- The normal opening pressure range for ICP via LP in adults is 6 to 25 cmH2O.
- The population mean ICP is approximately 18 cmH2O.
- Significant individual variability exists, with some normal individuals exhibiting pressures above 30 cmH2O.
Conclusions:
- ICP measurements from LP require careful interpretation within the patient's clinical context.
- Awareness of factors influencing LP is critical for accurate diagnosis.
- This review offers updated insights for neuro-ophthalmologists performing and interpreting LPs.
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