Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak - Classification

Classification

SCSFLS is classified into two main types, cranial leaks and spinal leaks. Cranial leaks occur in the head. In some cases, CSF can be seen dripping out of the nose, or ear. Spinal leaks occur when one or more holes form in the dura along the spinal cord. Both cranial and spinal spontaneous CSF leaks cause neurological symptoms as well as spontaneous intracranial hypotension, diminished volume and pressure of the cranium. While referred to as intracranial hypotension the intracranial pressure may be normal, but low-volume CSF is instead the underlying issue. For this reason SCSFLS is referred to as CSF hypovolemia as opposed to CSF hypotension.