Myelographic Techniques for the Detection of Spinal CSF Leaks in Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2016 Jan;206(1):8-19. doi: 10.2214/AJR.15.14884.

Abstract

Objective: Spinal leakage of CSF causes almost all cases of spontaneous intracranial hypotension. Leak detection and localization are important for both diagnosis and treatment. The myelographic appearance of the leaks may vary, however, depending on the cause of the leak, rate of leakage, and imaging modality used.

Conclusion: The purpose of this article is to review the imaging of spinal CSF leaks and to assist in the selection of appropriate imaging modalities in this condition.

Keywords: CSF; CSF leak; myelography; spontaneous intracranial hypotension.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak / complications*
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Hypotension / etiology*
  • Myelography / methods*
  • Spine / diagnostic imaging*