Today, U.S. Congressman Matt Cartwright introduced a resolution to increase awareness about cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks. This legislation would designate February 26 through March 4 as National Spinal CSF Leak Awareness Week.
Spinal CSF leaks, also known as intracranial hypotension, occur when the fluid that circulates through the spine and cavity around the brain escapes into surrounding tissue. Spinal CSF leaks are most commonly associated with debilitating “positional headaches,” which occur when in an upright position. Though thousands of Americans suffer from spinal CSF leaks, this condition is not well-understood.
“This condition is disabling, yet under-diagnosed,” said Rep. Cartwright. “Raising awareness of spinal CSF leaks is an important step in ensuring timely, accurate diagnosis and encouraging additional research.
Despite advancements in medical imaging technology, finding the exact location of a spinal CSF leak remains difficult. Even when the leak is located, treatment options are limited. Insight into additional possible treatments is hampered by under-diagnosis and lack of research funding.
This legislation is endorsed by the Spinal CSF Leak Foundation, the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, the National Organization for Rare Disorders, and the Jefferson Headache Center.
Rep. Matt Cartwright represents Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District, which includes Schuylkill County and portions of Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, and Northampton Counties. Cartwright serves on the House Committee on Appropriations and the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
Information Provided By:
Media Contact – Emily Sweda
U.S. Congressman Matt Cartwright
