What is the normal range for intracranial pressure (ICP)?

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Multiple Choice

What is the normal range for intracranial pressure (ICP)?

Explanation:
Intracranial pressure must stay within a narrow window to preserve cerebral perfusion. Clinically, ICP is often measured in centimeters of water (cm H2O). Normal ICP is roughly 5 to 20 cm H2O, which corresponds to about 4 to 15 mmHg, a range that maintains adequate cerebral blood flow. Values above this range indicate intracranial hypertension and risk of herniation; values far below are not typically a concern in adults. So the 5–20 cm H2O range best reflects a normal ICP in this measurement unit.

Intracranial pressure must stay within a narrow window to preserve cerebral perfusion. Clinically, ICP is often measured in centimeters of water (cm H2O). Normal ICP is roughly 5 to 20 cm H2O, which corresponds to about 4 to 15 mmHg, a range that maintains adequate cerebral blood flow. Values above this range indicate intracranial hypertension and risk of herniation; values far below are not typically a concern in adults. So the 5–20 cm H2O range best reflects a normal ICP in this measurement unit.

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