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Spinal Tap

Spinal Tap Introduction

  • A spinal tap is a procedure performed when a doctor needs to look at the cerebrospinal fluid (also known as spinal fluid). Spinal tap is also referred to as a lumbar puncture, or LP.)

  • Some of the reasons your doctor may want to do a spinal tap include the following:


  • Cerebrospinal fluid is a liquid that bathes the brain and spinal cord. An adult has about 140 mL (just under 5 oz) of spinal fluid. Typically, an adult makes 30-100 mL of spinal fluid daily.

  • A spinal tap can be performed in any person and at any age from newborn to age 100 years and older.



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Spinal Tap

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Overview

The brain and spinal cord are surrounded by a clear fluid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This fluid is produced and stored in cavities in the brain called ventricles. It circulates around the brain, moving from ventricle to ventricle. The purposes of the fluid are to cushion and protect the brain and spinal cord, to supply them with nutrients, and to remove some of their waste products. Any excess fluid drains away from the brain and is absorbed by other tissues.

Hydrocephalus is a condition in which there is too much CSF in the ventricles. This occurs when the natural system for draining and absorbing extra CSF does not work right. The ventricles enlarge to accommodate the extra fluid and then press on different parts of the brain, causing a number of different symptoms. Hydrocephalus has many different causes....

Read the Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus article »



Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Lumbar Puncture (CSF Examination) »

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was first examined in the 19th century using primitive techniques (eg, sharpened bird quills).

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary