Spontaneous CSF leaks can occur due to increased intracranial pressure
(pressure in the head). This can happen to patients with hydrocephalus, a buildup of CSF in the skull. Spontaneous leaks may also occur without an identifiable cause.
Can CSF leak symptoms come and go?
Patients who have had a CSF leak have described the fluid as having a salty or metallic taste. Dr. Frank P.K. Hsu, chair of the department of neurological surgery at UC Irvine Health, said that
the fluid may also “come and go.
”
What causes cerebrospinal fluid leak?
A CSF leak results from a hole or tear in the dura, the outermost layer of the meninges. Causes of the hole or tear can include
head injury and brain or sinus surgery
. CSF leaks may also occur after lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap or spinal anesthesia.
Can you have a CSF leak with a shunt?
We here report a unique case of intracranial hypotension (IH) due to CSF leakage after LP shunt
Hydrocephalus is caused by
an imbalance between how much cerebrospinal fluid is produced and how much is absorbed into the bloodstream
. Cerebrospinal fluid is produced by tissues lining the ventricles of the brain. It flows through the ventricles by way of interconnecting channels.
Is CSF leak an emergency?
If a CSF leak is suspected, you should see a physician as soon as possible. If symptoms of meningitis (high fever, light sensitivity, neck stiffness) are suspected,
you should go to the emergency room
.
Can a CSF leak cause death?
Background: Post-traumatic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage is one of the most troublesome conditions associated with head trauma. CSF fistulae, meningitis/central nervous infection, or
even death may accompany it
.
What should I avoid with a CSF leak?
Avoiding bending, twisting, stretching and straining
.
Avoiding lifting anything heavy
(nothing over 2.5kg/5lbs) Avoiding coughing or sneezing with you nose/mouth closed. Avoiding straining on the toilet, blowing up balloons or playing brass/wind instruments.
What happens if CSF leak is not treated?
Untreated CSF leaks can lead to
life-threatening meningitis, brain infections, or stroke
. UT Southwestern specialists offer rapid, accurate diagnosis of this dangerous condition, world-class surgical services to correct it, and pre- and post-surgical care that optimizes each patient’s treatment and recovery.
How do I know if I have runny nose or CSF?
Rhinorrhea
(runny nose) that is clear and watery may be the first sign of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea. 1 Other signs and symptoms may include: Headache. Salty or metallic taste in the mouth1
Does hydrocephalus shorten life?
What is the life expectancy of a child who has hydrocephalus? Children often have a full life span if hydrocephalus is caught early and treated. Infants who undergo surgical treatment to reduce the excess fluid in the brain and survive to age
1 will not have a shortened life expectancy due to hydrocephalus
.
Does hydrocephalus go away?
Hydrocephalus is a chronic condition.
It can be controlled, but usually not cured
. With appropriate early treatment, however, many people with hydrocephalus lead normal lives with few limitations. Hydrocephalus can occur at any age, but is most common in infants and adults age 60 and older.
What does a CSF leak feel like?
The most common symptoms of a spinal CSF leak are:
Positional headaches
, which feel worse when sitting upright and better when lying down; caused by intracranial hypotension. Nausea and vomiting. Neck pain or stiffness.
How do you treat a CSF leak at home?
In many cases, a CSF leak will heal on its own accord following conservative treatment, including strict bed rest,
increased fluid intake and caffeine
. Conservative treatment and the tincture of time is not always enough, however.
How does caffeine help CSF leak?
The caffeine in coffee is
thought to increase CSF production
, thereby helping to reduce headache severity in those with spinal CSF leaks.
What type of doctor treats CSF leak?
With advancements of endoscopic techniques inside the nose, repair of CSF leaks is now most often most appropriately managed by
an Otolaryngologist
. An ENT surgeon has the most extensive training of any specialty with respect to the anatomy and surgical techniques inside the nose. Dr.
