Imaging of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak

A cerebrospinal fluid leak from the cranial cavity requires presence of a fistulous communication between the subarachnoid and extracranial space through the skull base. Imaging plays a crucial role in identifying and characterizing the skull base defect and evaluating coexisting pathologies that may alter surgical approach. The authors discuss the epidemiology, imaging, and management of cerebrospinal fluid leak, with particular reference to the imaging modalities and findings.