Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Definition

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless body fluid found in the brain and spinal cord. It provides cushioning for the brain, removes waste products, and circulates nutrients.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CSF is produced by the choroid plexus in the ventricles of the brain.
2. It acts as a shock absorber to protect the central nervous system from trauma.
3. CSF helps maintain homeostasis by regulating intracranial pressure.
4. It can be sampled via lumbar puncture to diagnose infections like meningitis.
5. CSF contains glucose, proteins, and white blood cells which can indicate infection or disease.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of cerebrospinal fluid?
• Where is CSF produced within the central nervous system?
• How can CSF analysis aid in diagnosing nervous system infections?

Related terms

Choroid Plexus: A network of cells that produce cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain.

Lumbar Puncture:

A medical procedure used to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing.

Meningitis:

An inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often diagnosed through CSF analysis.