intratekaalse

Intratekaalse is the Estonian adjective form meaning intrathecal. It describes something related to the intrathecal space around the spinal cord or to administration into that space. The base term intratekaalne is derived from the English intrathecal, which itself comes from Latin intra- meaning within and theca meaning sheath. In Estonian medical usage, intratekaalse refers to substances or procedures delivered into the cerebrospinal fluid via the intrathecal space.

In medicine, intrathecal administration is used to achieve rapid exposure of the central nervous system while bypassing systemic circulation and the blood-brain barrier. Common applications include spinal anesthesia (intrathecal anesthesia) and intrathecal chemotherapy or analgesia. Drugs delivered intrathecally may include anesthetics, chemotherapeutic agents, or opioid analgesics, chosen to treat CNS involvement or provide targeted relief.

Intrathecal delivery is contrasted with epidural administration; intrathecal injections enter the cerebrospinal fluid via the subarachnoid space, typically through a lumbar puncture. The technique requires sterile conditions, careful patient selection, and knowledge of potential complications.

Risks associated with intrathecal procedures include infection, bleeding, post-dural puncture headache, and neurotoxicity. Proper technique and patient monitoring are essential, and procedures are usually performed by trained clinicians in appropriate clinical settings. Notable applications include intrathecal methotrexate for certain leukemias and intrathecal opioids or chemotherapeutics for CNS-directed therapy.

See also: intrathecal, cerebrospinal fluid, spinal anesthesia, epidural anesthesia.