Evaluating the cerebrospinal fluid tap test with the Hellström iNPH scale for patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus

Abstract Background The cerebrospinal fluid tap test (CSF TT) is used for selecting shunt surgery candidates among patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). We aimed to evaluate the predictive value of CSF TT, by using Hellström iNPH scale shunted a standardized method. Methods One hundred and sixteen shunt-operated were retrospectively included in this study. gait balance domains as outcome measures TT total score postoperative outcome. A positive response was defined change ? 5 points domain 16 domain. Differences between responders non-responders, sensitivity, specificity, negative values, accuracy, correlations changes from baseline post follow-up, calculated. Results In there 63.8% correspondingly 44.3% had significantly better (gait P ? 0.001, 0.012) improved more (P 0.001) 0.001). No differences or could be found neuropsychological urinary continence assessments postoperatively. sensitivity specificity postoperatively 68.1% 52.0% 47.8% 68.0% balance, respectively. Conclusions measure, has clear limitations predicting results. may predict outcomes gait, but too insensitive.