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Leaking After a Spinal Tap

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can leak after a spinal tap is performed for diagnosis or injection. Leakage is usually short-term and resolves with rest, according to the University of Illinois Medical Center.

  1. Cause and Symptoms

    • After a spinal tap, CSF can leak from the arachnoid membrane of the central nervous system. A clear, watery fluid leaking from the puncture site, ear or nose may be visible. The patient commonly reports a headache that improves when he lies down.

    Diagnosis

    • Occasional CSF leakage is not preventable after a spinal tap. The fluid can be tested to identify it as CSF, although if accompanied by a headache after a spinal tap, CSF leakage is often assumed.

    Treatment

    • Antibiotics, rest and sometimes catheters inserted into the lumbar spine are used to treat CSF leakage. The problem can also result from tumors, surgery or head trauma.

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