Neurology · UKMLA & AKT
Raised intracranial pressure
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test, covering how to recognise this condition. The full SA Note notes add investigations, management and complications, with practice questions on this topic.
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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