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Book

Physiology, Cerebral Spinal Fluid

Konstantinos Margetis  1 , Stephen Baker
In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan.
.
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Book

Physiology, Cerebral Spinal Fluid

Konstantinos Margetis et al.
Free Books & Documents

Excerpt

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is contained within the brain ventricles and the subarachnoid spaces of the cranium and spine (see Image. Cerebrospinal Fluid Distribution). Essential physiological functions include nutrient delivery, waste clearance, and mechanical protection of the brain. In adults, total CSF volume measures approximately 150 ml—about 125 ml within the subarachnoid spaces and 25 ml within the ventricles. Older individuals may have volumes approaching 350 ml due to cerebral atrophy.

The choroid plexus accounts for most CSF production, with minor contributions from less well-defined sources. Daily secretion ranges from 400 to 600 ml in adults, supporting complete CSF renewal 4 to 5 times every 24 hours in young adults. Decreased turnover may promote metabolite accumulation observed in aging and neurodegenerative disease. The composition of CSF is tightly regulated. Any deviation may carry diagnostic significance.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure: Konstantinos Margetis declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

Disclosure: Stephen Baker declares no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies.

References

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