Professional
Technical
IVT
intracranial pressure (ICP)
Also written as: ICP — intracranial pressure
The pressure of cerebrospinal fluid within the skull, measured in mmHg or cmH2O.
Full Definition
Intracranial pressure (ICP) is the pressure exerted by cerebrospinal fluid, brain tissue, and blood within the rigid cranial cavity. Normal ICP ranges from 5-15 mmHg in adults. Elevated ICP can result from brain tumors, hemorrhage, edema, or obstruction of CSF flow, and requires immediate medical intervention to prevent brain herniation. ICP monitoring is critical in neurosurgical patients and those with traumatic brain injury.
Usage
Usage note: Always spell out on first use, then use ICP. Units must be specified (mmHg or cmH2O).
In Context
- "The patient's intracranial pressure rose to 25 mmHg following the hemorrhagic stroke." — Neurosurgical case report
- "Continuous ICP monitoring revealed sustained elevations above 20 mmHg." — ICU documentation
Also known as
cranial pressure
Don't confuse with
intracranial compliance
cerebral perfusion pressure