Spontaneous CSF leaks: underlying disorder of connective tissue

Neurology. 2002 Mar 12;58(5):814-6. doi: 10.1212/wnl.58.5.814.

Abstract

Of 58 consecutive patients with spontaneous CSF leaks, nine exhibited features of connective tissue disorder. One had Marfan's syndrome. Five additional patients had hyperflexible joints, of whom four had arachnodactyly, four were tall and slender, two had hyperextensible skin, and one had a strong family history of abdominal aorta aneurysms. Retinal detachment at a young age was noted in two. One patient had bilateral carotid dissections. A dural weakness may predispose patients to spontaneous CSF leak.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Carotid Artery, Internal, Dissection / pathology
  • Carotid Artery, Internal, Dissection / physiopathology
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid / physiology*
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Pressure
  • Child
  • Connective Tissue Diseases / complications
  • Connective Tissue Diseases / pathology
  • Connective Tissue Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Hypotension
  • Joint Instability
  • Male
  • Meninges / pathology
  • Middle Aged