Clinical Relevance of the meninges and CSF

Question 1

where does the spinal chord terminate in adults?

Answer 1

at L1 - beyond L1 the spinal chord contains spinal nerves

Question 2

what is found in the meninges inferior to the termination of the spinal chord?

Answer 2

cauda equina

Question 3

how can CSF be removed from this space?

Answer 3

by a needle with minimal risk of damaging the nerves - called a lumbar puncture or spinal tap

Question 4

what would happen if a lumbar puncture was done above L1?

Answer 4

the needle would be at risk of piercing the spinal chord

Question 5

what do increased white blood cells in the fluid removed from the lumbar puncture mean?

Answer 5

increased levels of white blood cells indicate a brain haemorrhage or stroke