[Lumbar puncture: indications and limitations]

Fast deterioration of the neurological status of patients with raised intracranial pressure after lumbar puncture is not rare. Cerebral coning or rebleeding occur in consequence of cerebrospinal fluid leak. An experimental model correlates leakage with needle gauge. Computed tomography is indicated for diagnosis at the time of the initial examination. Puncture with needles of small diameter (less than 0.5 mm) is recommended.