Definition

Noun: * Cerebrospinal fluid: A clear, colorless bodily fluid that is produced primarily in the ventricles of the brain. It circulates through the ventricular system and the subarachnoid space surrounding the brain and spinal cord, providing essential mechanical and immunological protection.

Usage

• Spinal fluid acts as a cushion, protecting the brain and spinal cord from impact.
• A sample of spinal fluid can be obtained through a lumbar puncture for diagnostic testing.
• The analysis of spinal fluid is crucial for diagnosing conditions like meningitis or multiple sclerosis.

Examples

• The doctor ordered a test to check for infection in the spinal fluid.
• A blockage in the flow of spinal fluid can cause increased pressure within the skull.
• The spinal fluid provides nutrients and removes waste products from the central nervous system.

Advanced Usage

• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF): This is the full technical term for spinal fluid. The two terms are often used interchangeably in medical contexts.
  • The lab report showed abnormal protein levels in the cerebrospinal fluid.

Variants and Related Words

• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF): The formal medical term.
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): The medical procedure to collect a sample of spinal fluid.

Synonyms

• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Related Phrases

• CSF analysis: The laboratory examination of spinal fluid.
• CSF leak: An abnormal loss of spinal fluid, often from a tear in the surrounding membrane.
• CSF pressure: The measurement of the force exerted by the circulating spinal fluid.

Noun

1. clear liquid produced in the ventricles of the brain; fills and protects cavities in the brain and spinal cord