Definition: The pressure that is exerted on to the brain tissue by external forces, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood. Under normal conditions, a steady volume of CSF, blood and brain are held inside of the skull, which causes a predictable low pressure to be placed on the brain. A rise in the volume of cerebrospinal fluid (from hydrocephalus) or blood (from bleeding), though, can cause an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP).
Other causes of increased ICP include tumors and swelling from stroke, infection or trauma.
Also Known As: ICP
