Cerebrospinal Fluid Pressure Normal Range
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure is a crucial indicator that helps assess the general condition of the central nervous system. It is one of the physical tests performed on CSF. During a lumbar puncture, once CSF is observed, a manometer is immediately attached to measure the pressure. This method provides the most accurate reading. Normally, in adults lying on their side, the CSF pressure ranges between 80 and 180 mm H2O. In children, the pressure is typically lower, ranging from 40 to 100 mm H2O when in the same position.
How to Accurately Measure CSF Pressure
To obtain reliable cerebrospinal fluid pressure readings, several important steps must be followed. First, the patient must be in a proper lateral decubitus (side-lying) position, as incorrect positioning can lead to inaccurate measurements. Second, in cases where CSF pressure is significantly elevated and fluid gushes out rapidly during puncture, immediate medical intervention is necessary to prevent complications such as brain herniation. In addition, strict aseptic techniques must be followed to avoid infections that could lead to symptoms like fever and headache. Finally, and most importantly, the pressure should be measured as soon as CSF begins to flow. Delaying the measurement even by a few drops can alter the pressure and compromise the accuracy of the result.
What Does CSF Pressure Indicate?
CSF pressure can vary depending on the underlying neurological condition and plays a key role in diagnosing intracranial pathologies. Elevated pressure is commonly associated with conditions such as traumatic brain injury, various types of encephalitis, meningitis, spinal cord inflammation, cerebral hemorrhage, brain tumors, and other neurological disorders. On the other hand, decreased CSF pressure may be observed in cases of cerebrospinal fluid leakage following head trauma (such as rhinorrhea or otorrhea), repeated lumbar punctures within a short period, prolonged ventricular drainage, improper needle placement during lumbar puncture, spinal cord compression, subarachnoid adhesions, or the presence of subdural hematomas.