QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
The patient being **on** anti-coagulation therapy would be a contraindication because of the associated increased risk of bleeding.
10005232
b
If the patient is not on anti-coagulant therapy
QuestionChoice
If the patient had a spinal abscess this **would be** a contraindication for a lumbar puncture. This is because the procedure can cause bacteria to spread into the subarachnoid space.
10005234
d
If there is no clinical suspicion of a spinal abscess
QuestionChoice
If a patient had thrombocytopenia or a clotting disorder this **would be** a contraindication for carrying out a lumbar puncture.
10005233
c
If the patient does not have thrombocytopenia or other clotting disorders
QuestionChoice
Spinal trauma would be a contraindication for a lumbar puncture. This is because the anatomy and spinal structure would be altered thus resulting in the unsafe placement of the needle.
10005235
e
If there is no acute spinal trauma
QuestionChoice
If a lumbar puncture is carried out in those with a raised intracranial pressure due to a space occupying lesion this can precipitate brainstem herniation. This is because there is a sudden decrease in pressure within the spinal cord by removing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Other causes of raised intracranial pressure can be treated with a lumbar puncture, for example in hydrocephalus.
10005231
a
If the patient has raised intracranial pressure due to a space occupying lesion
Concept
Chapter
2693
4387
Raised intracranial pressure
Topic
141
Neurology
13593
In which of the following instances is it contraindicated to perform a lumbar puncture?
a