Purpose:
Recent studies support the notion that reduced cerebrospinal fluid pressure (CSFP) is an important risk factor for the development of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). In this study we examined the relationship between age and CSFP in a large electronic database.
Methods:
Clinical data from patient records who had a lumbar puncture performed at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) between 1996-2009 were reviewed. Demographic and clinical information including medical history, lumbar puncture opening pressure, and CSF analysis was obtained. Patients with diagnoses, medications, or surgical procedures known to affect CSFP were excluded.
Results:
Relative to mean CSFP at age group 45-49 (mean 150.3 ± 47.7), mean CSFP declined significantly after age 55. The percent reduction for age group 80-84 was 20.4% (mean 119.7 ± 53.7, p<0.001) and for age group 85-89, was reduced 33.5% (mean 100.0 ± 58.9, p<0.001). There was no difference between sexes.
Conclusions:
CSFP demonstrates a significant and sustained reduction after age 55 that is not influenced by sex. Interestingly, the age range where CSFP declines is similar to that where the prevalence of POAG rises. These data support the hypothesis that reduced CSFP may be a risk factor for POAG and offers a reason why this risk would increase with age.
Keywords: clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: biostatistics/epidemiology methodology • lamina cribrosa • optic nerve