Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 14, 2026

A Bedside, Single Burr Hole Approach to Multimodality Monitoring in Severe Brain Injury
Published on: March 26, 2019
Cerebrospinal fluid tap test in normal pressure hydrocephalus
Josephine Schena1, Harvey Burns2, Alexander Hayes2
1Neurosciences, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
Abstract:
Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a common cause of gait apraxia, cognitive impairment and urinary incontinence in older adults and can respond to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunting. It can be challenging to select optimal candidates for CSF shunting given that communicating hydrocephalus is common in the normal ageing population as are the clinical symptoms of NPH. Large-volume lumbar puncture or CSF tap test can identify good candidates for CSF shunting. While neurologists are familiar with and have access to routine lumbar punctures, there are nuances about the CSF tap test for NPH to consider in clinical practice. In this article, we describe our practice for CSF tap tests with reference to the current evidence and common pitfalls while accepting the limitation of the test itself.
Related Concept Videos
Cerebrospinal Fluid
CSF Production
CSF is produced mainly in the choroid plexus, a network of capillaries and ependymal cells located within the ventricular system of the brain.
Increased Intracranial Pressure l: Introduction
Increased Intracranial Pressure ll: Pathophysiology
Cerebral Edema ll: Pathophysiology
Cerebral Edema l: Introduction
