| Abstract: | In a review of the literature dealing with cerebral edema the author analyzes concepts, pathogenetic mechanisms, and the recent classification into vasogenic and cytotoxic forms. The relationship between systemic and cerebral edema is discussed, as well as the effects of hydrocephalus. Among the factors with a significant relationship to cerebral edema, particular reference is given to intracranial hypertension, the cerebrospinal fluid, the blood-brain barrier, and the extracellular space.The criteria used in demonstrating the existence of edema of the brain at the gross, light microscopic, and ultrastructural levels are discussed, as well as essential biochemical alterations. The relationship of spongy encephalopathies to cerebral edema is analyzed and the conclusion drawn that at least some do indeed represent special forms of edema.The author stresses that more work on the mechanisms of resolution of cerebral edema needs to be done and concludes by outlining potentially useful avenues of investigation. |
