Lumbar Puncture & Intrathecal Chemotherapy
A lumbar puncture involves inserting a fine needle into the lower back to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or deliver chemotherapy drugs directly into it. This helps manage or prevent cancer spread to the brain and spinal cord.
Purpose
It allows diagnostic evaluation and precise drug delivery where systemic chemotherapy may not reach.
Subtypes
- Diagnostic Lumbar Puncture: For testing CSF to detect abnormal cells or infection.
- Intrathecal Chemotherapy: Administration of anti-cancer drugs (e.g., methotrexate, cytarabine) into the CSF.
Conditions Treated
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
- Lymphomas involving the CNS
- CNS prophylaxis during leukemia treatment
Benefits
- Prevents central nervous system relapse
- Provides targeted treatment to a sanctuary site
- Enables early detection of CNS involvement
Downsides / Risks
- Headache or nausea post-procedure
- Temporary back pain
- Rare infection or bleeding risk
Precautions
- Strict aseptic technique
- Performed by trained oncology specialists
- Post-procedure rest and hydration
Post-Procedure Care
- Lying flat for several hours
- Pain management for headaches
- Follow-up imaging or CSF analysis if required
Precautions while taking the chemotherapy
- After therapy, stay away from bodily fluid contact.
- Avoid going over your limits.
- Keep an infection at bay.
- If possible, use a separate toilet or sit down when using the toilet to lessen the danger of liquids splashing.
Instead of hand washing, use a washing machine, warm water, and laundry detergent to clean your clothes, fabrics, and beds. - Separately from other objects, wash any material that has been exposed to bodily fluids.
Hands should be washed with warm water and soap, then dried with paper towels
Post-chemotherapy Care
Follow-up care is crucial after treatment. This includes managing long-term side effects and monitoring for new ones through regular physical exams and diagnostic tests.
- Avoid contact with bodily fluids post-treatment.
- Don’t overexert yourself.
- Prevent infections.
- Use a separate toilet if possible, or sit down to avoid splashing.
- Use a washing machine for clothes exposed to bodily fluids.
- Wash hands with warm water and soap, dry with paper towels.
Do’s during treatment
- Stay hydrated.
- Maintain proper hygiene.
- Use sunscreen when outdoors.
Dont’s During the Treatment
- Avoid large meals.
- Stay away from people with infections.
- Don’t eat raw or undercooked food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to Your Questions: Navigate Our Frequently Asked Questions Section
Is lumbar puncture painful?
Local anesthesia minimizes discomfort. Mild soreness may occur afterward.
How long does the procedure take?
Usually 20–30 minutes, followed by observation for a few hours.