cerebrospinal fluid (redirected from Subarachnoid fluid)

cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Clear, colourless liquid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord and fills the spaces in them. It helps support the brain, acts as a lubricant, maintains pressure in the skull, and cushions shocks. Analysis of CSF obtained by a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) helps diagnose a number of disorders, including meningitis and hemorrhage in the central nervous system.