The area of the body between the chest and pelvis containing the liver, intestines, kidneys and other organs. (Synonymous with the peritoneal cavity)
Any substance (such as Penicillin) which destroys or inhibits the growth of bacteria
A thin "web like" membrane that surrounds the brain, internal to the dura. The space beneath the arachnoid is known as the "subarachnoid space" and is filled with spinal fluid.
One of the two upper chambers of the heart
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The fluid filling the ventricles of the brain and surrounding the brain and spinal cord
Abbreviation for computerized axial tomography, a special x-ray technique which outlines the ventricles and other structures of the brain in cross section
Delicate structure in the ventricles of the brain that produces CSF
A state in which the patient doesn't respond to stimulation
A condition present since birth
Cerebrospinal fluid
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Determination of a patient's problem
Shunt catheter that is farthest from the ventricles, usually in the peritoneal cavity
The outer most, fibrous membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord (also dura mater)
Refers to a group of symptoms involving progressive impairment of brain function. This may include forgetfulness, apathy, and/or deterioration in ones level of functioning on a day-to-day basis
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An object, such as an implant, introduced into a living body from the outside
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An unusual and uncontrollable problem with walking, which may include weakness of the legs, unsteady walking, and small shuffling steps
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Excessive build-up of CSF in the ventricles of the brain, causing compression on other surrounding structures of the brain
Hydrocephalus developed after birth
Hydrocephalus in which there is no obstruction between ventricles and subarachnoid space
Hydrocephalus existing before or at birth
Hydrocephalus in which there is obstruction of CSF flow between ventricles
A syndrome characterized by enlargement of the ventricles along with a triad of symptoms that include gait disturbance, dementia, and impaired bladder control
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The inability to control the passage of urine. This can range from occasional leakage of urine, to a complete inability to hold any urine
The pressure within the skull
A radioactive material used for determining spinal fluid flow and shunt function
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A procedure to obtain a specimen of CSF by positioning a small needle or catheter into the subarachnoid space, at the level of the lumbar spine, in order to withdraw CSF for appropriate testing. Also known as a Spinal Tap
The area of the spine in the small of the back
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The coverings of the brain and spinal cord made up of the dura mater, arachnoid, and pia mater
Inflammation or infection of the meninges
Abbreviation for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. By means of magnetic energy, images are taken, showing the ventricles and other structures within the brain
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Pertaining to the nervous system (including the brain and spinal cord)
A syndrome characterized by enlargement of the ventricles within the brain along with a triad of symptoms that may include gait disturbance, dementia, and impaired bladder control
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Lining of the abdominal cavity
The abdominal cavity
A very delicate, highly vascular, layer of tissue that is adherent to the brain and spinal cord, following all the contours
Plastic used in the manufacture of shunt systems
Shunt catheter in the ventricle
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A system of tubing used to drain CSF from the ventricles or subarachnoid space into another area of the body
Surgical procedure during which a shunt system is implanted
A polymer characterized by inertness in the body tissues and used in the manufacture of shunt systems and other medical devices
The boney structure that surrounds and protects the brain
Excessive narrowing of the lateral ventricle due to over-drainage of CSF
An elongated structure that is a component of the central nervous system. It is the main pathway for information connecting the brain and peripheral nervous system. The human spinal cord is protected by the bony spinal column.
A semi-conscious condition, in which the patient is very sleepy
A place where cerebrospinal fluid circulates
A collection of blood between the dura, outer covering of the brain, and the surface of the brain
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The inability to control the passage of urine. This can range from occasional leakage of urine, to a complete inability to hold urine
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A one-way device used to control drainage of CSF from the ventricles of the brain or the lumbar area of the spine
The four cavities (two lateral, one third, and one fourth) lying within the brain
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