MR Evaluation of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Dynamics

Launched by MAYO CLINIC · Sep 19, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new MRI imaging method to see how cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flows in the brain. Understanding CSF dynamics can help doctors diagnose and learn more about conditions like hydrocephalus (a buildup of fluid in the brain) and Alzheimer's disease. The researchers are looking for participants, including healthy individuals and those with suspected issues related to CSF flow or cognitive problems.

To be eligible, participants should be between 65 and 74 years old and must not have any medical conditions that affect brain function, like memory or balance issues. Patients with suspected hydrocephalus or cognitive impairment, like Alzheimer's, will also be considered for the study. If you decide to participate, you can expect to undergo MRI scans to help researchers gather important information about brain health. It's important to note that certain individuals, such as those with devices that aren't compatible with MRI or who may be pregnant, cannot take part in this trial.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • A healthy control will be defined as an otherwise healthy person who does not have a medical condition that affects brain function or have problems with concentration, memory, balance, or coordination.
• • Patients who have a suspected diagnosis of altered CSF dynamics including but not limited to normal pressure hydrocephalus will be referred to Dr. Cogswell by their care team to be included in the study. Conditions of altered CSF dynamics include obstructive and non-obstructive hydrocephalus and may be associated with headaches and/or decreased cognitive function.
• • Similarly, patients with impaired cognitive function including but not limited to Alzheimer's disease will be referred to Dr. Cogswell by their care team to be included in the study.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Subjects with non-MRI compatible devices
• • required sedation
• • women who may be pregnant will be excluded.
• • The first 10 subjects with normal pressure hydrocephalus will not have previously been shunted.