Post-Surgical CSF leak with Inconclusive Diagnostic Studies: A Case Report

Abstract

Objectives: To report a case with post-surgical intracranial hypotension and inconclusive diagnostic findings. Background: The diagnosis of spontaneous intracranial hypotension is based on positive neuroimaging findings and/or low CSF pressure on spinal tap. Despite this conventional definition, cases with normal CSF pressure have also been reported. Results: This report explains a patient with post-surgical CSF leak, normal CSF opening pressure, and unremarkable imaging studies that responded well to the surgical repair. Conclusion: Our case challenges the conventional diagnostic criteria of spontaneous intracranial hypotension. We suggest that clinical judgment should be considered in regard to the diagnosis of spontaneous intracranial hypotension.