Ventricular and Cerebrospinal Fluid System

The meninges, ventricular system, subarachnoid space, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) constitute a functionally unique system that has an important role in maintaining a stable environment within which the central nervous system can function. The membranes that constitute the meninges serve as supportive and protective structures for neural tissue. The CSF itself provides a cushioning effect during rapid movement of the head and mechanical buoyancy to the brain. In addition to providing a pathway for the removal of brain metabolites, it functions as a chemical reservoir that protects the local environment of the brain from changes that may occur in the blood, thus ensuring the brain’s continued undisturbed performance. The CSF system is present at the supratentorial, posterior fossa, and spinal levels. Because of this extensive anatomical distribution and function, pathologic alterations of the CSF system can occur in many neurologic disorders.