Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
The spaces between the meninges are filled with fluid: cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The fluid contains nutrients, proteins and other solutes that nourish and protect the delicate CNS tissue. In addition the CSF cushions the CNS, which literally floats in the fluid. To diagnose a number of CNS diseases the CSF is analysed chemically and microscopically for altered contents (bacteria, blood cells, altered contents (bacteria, blood cells, altered concentration of e.g. sugar).
GE Healthcare Glossary