Biomarkers in Chronic Adult Hydrocephalus
Author Information
Author(s): Andrew Tarnaris, Laurence Watkins, Neil Kitchen
Primary Institution: Victor Horsley Department of Neurosurgery, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK
Hypothesis
Can biomarkers assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of chronic adult hydrocephalus?
Conclusion
Tumour-necrosis factor, tau protein, lactate, sulfatide, and neurofilament triple protein are the most promising CSF markers for chronic hydrocephalus, but none currently justify a change in clinical practice.
Supporting Evidence
- Biomarkers can provide insight into changes in the brain associated with chronic hydrocephalus.
- Current biomarkers have not yet met the criteria to change clinical practice.
- Future studies need to focus on larger populations to validate the findings.
Takeaway
Doctors are looking for special markers in the fluid around the brain to help them understand and treat a condition called hydrocephalus, which can cause memory problems.
Methodology
The authors reviewed research from the last 25 years on serum and CSF biomarkers for chronic hydrocephalus.
Potential Biases
The small number of studies and patients limits the generalizability of the findings.
Limitations
The study highlights the need for larger, multi-centre projects to gather more substantial data.
Participant Demographics
The review included studies primarily focused on adults with chronic hydrocephalus.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website