Neurology · UKMLA & AKT
Raised intracranial pressure
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test. Below are the key points to recognise raised intracranial pressure — the full SA Note notes add investigations, management, complications and 10 practice questions.
Key high-yield points
- Rising ICP → reduced CPP → brainstem ischaemia → sympathetic surge → vasoconstriction and hypertension → baroreceptor-mediated reflex bradycardia + irregular breathing
- Cushing's triad = hypertension + bradycardia + irregular breathing - a late, pre-terminal sign of critically raised ICP
Cushing's triad signals imminent herniation - not a sign to wait for. The hypertension triggers baroreceptor reflex bradycardia (NOT tachycardia).
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