Cerebrospinal fluid

Definition

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless body fluid found in the brain and spinal cord. It plays crucial roles in cushioning the brain, removing waste, and maintaining intracranial pressure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CSF is produced by the choroid plexus in the ventricles of the brain.
2. It circulates through the ventricles and subarachnoid space before being absorbed into the bloodstream.
3. Normal CSF pressure ranges from 10 to 20 cm H2O; deviations can indicate pathological conditions.
4. Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) due to excess CSF can be a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
5. Certain drugs used for treating intracranial emergencies can affect CSF dynamics, such as diuretics reducing ICP.

Review Questions

• What are the primary functions of cerebrospinal fluid?
• How does abnormal CSF pressure relate to intracranial emergencies?
• Which part of the brain is responsible for producing cerebrospinal fluid?

Related terms

Intracranial Pressure (ICP): The pressure exerted by fluids such as CSF within the skull.

Choroid Plexus: A network of cells that produce cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain.

Subarachnoid Space: The area between the arachnoid membrane and pia mater through which CSF flows around the brain and spinal cord.