Effect of Diamox on Cerebrospinal Fluid Pressure of Cat and Monkey

Abstract

Intravenous Diamox in doses of 150 mg/kg produced an immediate increase in cerebrospinal fluid (csf) pressure in cats and monkeys from 25 to 400% above the initial level. Normal cerebrospinal pressure levels were regained within 30 min. The ultimate csf pressure was 25% -60% below the initial level in normal cats and in monkeys with increased intracranial pressure, but not in normal monkeys. Elevated csf pressure from an artificial tumor mass was produced in 2 monkeys by the subdural implantation of psyllium seed. Elevations of pressure after Diamox administration in these animals reached potentially lethal levels. It is postulated tentatively that the increase in csf pressure is due to increased volume of intracranial vascular structures, secondary to elevated cerebral CO2 tension resulting from carbonic anhydrase inhibition by Diamox. Clinical trial of Diamox in this dosage for treat -ment of increased intracranial pressure is not advised.