Intracranial Pressure and Regulation

Flashcards related to intracranial pressure and central nervous system functions

Intracranial

Enclosed space within the skull containing the brain.

Intracranial Pressure

All cerebrum, brain matter and brain tissue

Thalamus and Hypothalamus

Responsible for hormones, temperature regulation, and growth

Brain Stem

Responsible for parasympathetic functions, balance, coordination, and autonomic functions like breathing

Dura Mater

Outer protective layer of the brain within the skull

Coup Contra Coupe

Brain injury where the brain hits one side of the skull then bounces to hit the opposite side, causing bruising and potential brain damage

Blood Brain Barrier

Protective mechanism that restricts entry of substances into the brain but allows passage of certain substances like alcohol, some illegal substances, some medications, some viruses and glucose

Spinal Fluid Test (Halo)

Clear drainage from the nose that indicates a cerebrospinal fluid leak due to the presence of glucose

Cerebral Edema

Swelling of the brain

Skull

Also known as cranial vault; the bony structure that holds and protects the brain.

Sutures

Soft spots on a baby's head where the skull hasn't fully fused; sunken soft spot indicates dehydration; bulging indicates cranial injury

Cushing's Triad

Set of clinical signs indicative of increased intracranial pressure, including irregular respirations, decreased heart rate (bradycardia), and high blood pressure (hypertension)

Periorbital Edema

Dark circles around the eyes, indicating possible increased ICP.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

Brain bleed; occurs when blood escapes from blood vessels and enters the brain, damaging surrounding tissues

Ischemic Stroke

Occurs when a blood clot or other obstruction blocks the flow of blood to the brain, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients

Mannitol

Medication used to dehydrate the brain and reduce increased intracranial pressure (ICP).

Craniotomy

Surgical procedure to remove a tumor, lesion, or blood or to relieve pressure; may involve removing a piece of the skull

Meningitis

Inflammation of the meninges, which can be viral (common, less dangerous) or bacterial (more dangerous)

Epilepsy

Neurological disorder characterized by decrease of Dopamine, seizures, tremors, rigidity, and facial masks

Alzheimer's Disease

Disease where parts of the brain deteriorate, leading to memory loss and cognitive decline