Evolving concepts of cerebrospinal fluid physiology

This article reviews the basic known functions of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) . The traditional concepts of CSF production and absorption are reviewed an d recent challenges to these concepts are discussed. MR imaging studies hav e begun to elucidate the complex interaction between pulsatile CSF movement , bulk CSF flow, and intracranial compliance. An understanding of a variety of disorders, including hydrocephalus and Chiari malformations, continue t o evolve as knowledge of CSF physiology is increased.