Is intrathecal and subarachnoid the same?

Is intrathecal and subarachnoid the same?

Also known as the subarachnoid space, the intrathecal space is the fluid-filled area located between the innermost layer of covering (the pia mater) of the spinal cord and the middle layer of covering (the arachnoid mater).

Where is an intrathecal injection administered?

Intrathecal drug administration is the introduction of a therapeutic substance into the cerebrospinal fluid by injection into the subarachnoid space of the spinal cord to bypass the blood-brain barrier. The main indications are for anesthesia and pain management.

What does the intrathecal space contain?

Describes the fluid-filled space between the thin layers of tissue that cover the brain and spinal cord. Drugs can be injected into the fluid or a sample of the fluid can be removed for testing.

Who can administer intrathecal injection?

An intrathecal injection or lumbar puncture is a method to deliver medication into the fluid of the spine, also known as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The procedure is always administered by a specially trained healthcare provider (HCP). See diagram on page 3.

Why is methotrexate given Intrathecally?

Methotrexate is a chemotherapy drug that is used to treat certain types of cancer and leukaemia. When given intrathecally, it prevents leukaemia cells entering the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) around the spine and brain. It is also used to treat leukaemia found in the CSF.

Where is subarachnoid space?

Anatomically, the subarachnoid space exists between the arachnoid mater externally and pia mater internally. A network of fine delicate connective tissue called trabeculae connects these two layers and gives this space its characteristic spider web appearance.

Which drug should never be given intrathecal?

Accidental administration of any vinca alkaloids—especially vincristine but also vinblastine, vinorelbine, or others—via the intrathecal route is nearly always fatal.

What is the difference between epidural and intrathecal?

Epidural analgesia is the administration of analgesics into the epidural space. Analgesics can be given either as a single injection or as a continuous infusion via an indwelling catheter. Intrathecal analgesia is the administration of analgesic drugs (as listed above) directly into the CSF in the intrathecal space.

How much does Spinraza cost?

In 2017, the FDA approved the drug Spinraza, an antisense oligonucleotide that promotes correct splicing of an SMN-encoding RNA to increase production of the protein. The drug, which is injected into the spinal canal, costs $125,000 dollars per treatment.

How is intrathecal methotrexate given?

Intrathecal methotrexate is given through a needle which is inserted in one of the spaces between the bones in the lower back into the CSF, usually under general anaesthesia. This is known as a lumbar puncture. When drugs are given in this way, they are said to be given intrathecally.

How often is intrathecal methotrexate given?

For treatment, in general, you’ll likely get two doses a week at first and then one weekly or monthly. The biologic rituximab, sometimes in combination with methotrexate, is used for some types of lymphoma.

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