cerebrospinal fluid leak
Also written as: CSF leak — cerebrospinal fluid leak
Abnormal escape of cerebrospinal fluid through a defect in the dura mater or skull base.
Full Definition
A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak occurs when there is an abnormal communication between the CSF space and the external environment, allowing the clear, protective fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord to escape. These leaks can be traumatic (resulting from injury), spontaneous (due to increased intracranial pressure or tissue weakness), or iatrogenic (caused by medical procedures). CSF leaks can manifest as clear fluid drainage from the nose (rhinorrhea) or ear (otorrhea), and pose serious risks including meningitis, pneumocephalus, and intracranial hypotension. Surgical repair is often necessary to restore the protective barrier and prevent complications.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as CSF leak; distinguish from common nasal or ear discharge in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Post-operative CSF leak required endoscopic repair of the skull base defect." — complication report
- "The patient presented with clear rhinorrhea consistent with CSF leak." — clinical assessment