Do you know what cerebrospinal fluid is? CThis fluid is very important because it serves to protect the brain. Therefore, gDisruption to this fluid can cause disturbances on The function of brain also.
The composition of normal cerebrospinal fluid is 99 percent water, the remainder consists of. proteins, mononuclear cell glucose, electrolytes, enzymes, and white blood cells (leukocytes). Since most of it is water, this liquid has a clear or translucent color.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Function
Cerebrospinal fluid flows in the ventricles of the brain, brainstem, and around the spinal cord. This liquid has antibacterial properties that inhibit the growth and development of bacteria.
Cerebrospinal fluid has three main functions, namely:
- Keeps brain tissue in position and provides a cushion to protect the brain from injury.
- As a medium for delivering nutrients to brain tissue and removing waste from the brain
- Maintain the balance of intracranial pressure, along with blood and brain tissue.
The production of cerebrospinal fluid in adults is about 500 ml per day. Meanwhile, in children aged 4-13 years, the production is around 65-150 ml per day. This fluid will be absorbed and replaced with new fluids every 6-8 hours.
Abnormalities in the cerebrospinal fluid
If there is an infection in the brain or spinal cord, the cerebrospinal fluid may change color and become cloudy. This can indicate an infection or a buildup of white blood cells and protein.
In addition to the content in it, the balance between the production and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid is important. Because cerebrospinal fluid is continuously produced, if its absorption and flow is blocked, it can accumulate in the brain cavities and eventually cause hydrocephalus.
In infants and children, hydrocephalus is usually characterized by an increase in the size of the head circumference.
Treatment of Cerebrospinal Fluid Disorders
Cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities will be treated according to the cause. If the cause is an infection, the doctor will provide treatment according to the type of infection. To prevent infection, you can vaccinate.
If the cerebrospinal fluid abnormality is a production and flow disturbance, as occurs in hydrocephalus, surgery may be required. The two methods of operation that are usually performed are insertion surgery shunt and endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV).
Cerebrospinal fluid has a very important function for the work of the brain. Therefore, if there are complaints that could indicate a disturbance in this fluid, such as headaches that are getting worse over time, vomiting, and decreased consciousness, immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.
