Explain the compensatory mechanisms used by the body to help control intracranial pressure
What will be an ideal response?
Suggested response: According to the Monro-Kellie hypothesis an increase in the volume of one or more of the three intracranial components without a correlating decrease in the other components will result in a rise in the intracranial pressure. This correlating decrease of volumes is known as the compensatory mechanisms and includes: • displacement of some CSF from within the intracranial vault (i.e. within the ventricles and the subarachnoid space) down through the foramen magnum into the spinal subarachnoid space • decreased production of CSF • vasoconstriction of the cerebral blood vessels, which reduces the circulating volume of blood within the cranial vault. While these mechanisms can control intracranial pressure, it should be noted that the effects and duration are limited. The underlying cause of the raised ICP needs to be corrected; otherwise pressure will continue rise.
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a. toddlerhood. c. adolescence. b. preschool age. d. young adulthood.
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a. renal scarring c. septicemia b. loss of bladder capacity d. loss of bladder tone