Intracranial Pressure
Also written as ICP.
Convulsions are attributed to raised intracranial pressure and elevated glutamate levels
What our notes say
- Convulsions are attributed to raised intracranial pressure and elevated glutamate levels (Paediatrics end of second semester exam (MBPE 4300): 4 October 2022, cardiology,)
- The contraindications are signs of raised intracranial pressure or brain shift (abnormal posture, unequal or sluggish pupils, irregular breathing). (Paediatrics Year 6 MBChB end of semester CAT: clinical case MCQs, 29 of 30 quest)
- Steroids: Corticosteroids (e.g., Dexamethasone) may be considered in patients with severe enteric fever and signs of increased intracranial pressure or shock, but their routine use is debated and should be carefully considered. (Enteric fever)
- Haemorrhagic stroke: control blood pressure, reverse anticoagulation, treat raised intracranial pressure, and refer for neurosurgery if indicated. (Internal Medicine (MBIM 4100) main exam, Paper One: 3 July 2019)
- Papilloedema: Rare, but can occur with chronic severe hypercapnia due to cerebral vasodilation and increased intracranial pressure. (Respiratory failure and arterial blood gas interpretation)
- This causes rapid, life-threatening rises in intracranial pressure (ICP). (Bacterial meningitis and encephalitis)
Study material on Intracranial Pressure
- Raised intracranial pressure
- Devendra K. Gupta, Krishna M. Goel - Hutchison’s Paediatrics. chdhe-Jaypee Brothers (2012)
- Davidson's Essentials of Medicine - 2nd
- Harrisons Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine
- Bacterial meningitis and encephalitis
- Harrisons Cardiovascular Medicine 2nd Edition 2
- Micronutrients
- Micronutrients
Practice questions on Intracranial Pressure
Progressive brain edema with rising intracranial pressure can cause
- Reduced cerebral perfusion from vascular compression
- Increased cerebral blood flow without any risk of ischemia
- Permanent relaxation of all cerebral vessels
- Increased intracranial compliance
- Improved cerebral oxygen delivery
Answer: A. Rising intracranial pressure can compress cerebral vessels, reduce cerebral perfusion pressure and produce ischemia. Severe edema can therefore create a dangerous cycle of impaired perfusion and further injury.