Updated physiology and pathophysiology of CSF circulation--the pulsatile vector theory

Childs Nerv Syst. 2013 Oct;29(10):1811-25. doi: 10.1007/s00381-013-2219-0. Epub 2013 Jul 7.

Abstract

Introduction: Hydrocephalus is still a not well-understood diagnostic and a therapeutic dilemma because of the lack of sufficient and comprehensive model of cerebrospinal fluid circulation and pathological alterations.

Conclusions: Based on current studies, reviews, and knowledge of cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, brain water dynamics, intracranial pressure, and cerebral perfusion physiology, a new concept is deducted that can describe normal and pathological changes of cerebrospinal fluid circulation and pathophysiology of idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain / physiology*
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid / physiology*
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Pressure / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus / physiopathology*
  • Pulsatile Flow / physiology