lumbar puncture
Pronunciation: LUM-bar PUNK-chur
A diagnostic procedure in which a needle is inserted into the spinal canal to collect cerebrospinal fluid for analysis.
Full Definition
A lumbar puncture (LP), also known as a spinal tap, is a medical procedure performed to obtain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for diagnostic testing or to measure intracranial pressure. The procedure involves inserting a needle between the lumbar vertebrae (typically L3-L4 or L4-L5) into the subarachnoid space. In pediatric neurology, lumbar punctures are used to diagnose infections like meningitis, inflammatory conditions, hemorrhage, or malignancy involving the central nervous system. The procedure requires careful technique and consideration of contraindications such as increased intracranial pressure or bleeding disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as LP in clinical documentation; specify contraindications and opening pressure when relevant.
In Context
- "A lumbar puncture was performed to rule out bacterial meningitis in the febrile infant with altered mental status." — Emergency department procedure note