Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is produced constantly by the brain within the ventricular system (the fluid spaces inside the brain). Once produced, CSF circulates from the brain down to the spine, and then back to the brain again, where it is reabsorbed into the major veins of the brain. Approximately 500mL of CSF is produced a day, but the entire volume of the CSF system is about 150mL. Therefore, CSF circulation cycles through the fluid circuit about three times in a day.
CSF disorders more commonly occur due to an obstruction in the CSF circulation system, rather than an overproduction or underproduction of CSF. When obstruction occurs, the fluid spaces enlarge, leading to increased pressure within the brain and hydrocephalus.
Learn about the CSF disorders treated at Eminence Neurosurgery, including: