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intrathecal (IN-truh-THEE-kul)

 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.

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Intrathecal chemotherapy; drawing shows the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain and spinal cord, and an Ommaya reservoir (a dome-shaped container that is placed under the scalp during surgery; it holds the drugs as they flow through a small tube into the brain). Top section shows a syringe and needle injecting anticancer drugs into the Ommaya reservoir. Bottom section shows a syringe and needle injecting anticancer drugs directly into the cerebrospinal fluid in the lower part of the spinal column.




Previous Definitions:intraperitoneal chemotherapy, intraperitoneal infusion, intraperitoneal radiation therapy, intrapleural, intraspinal
Next Definitions:intrathecal chemotherapy, intratumoral, intrauterine, intrauterine device, intravaginal

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