Intracranial space, brain, and cerebrospinal fluid volume measurements obtained with the aid of three-dimensional computerized tomographyin patients with and without Crouzon syndrome

Object. The authors attempt to provide a standard for volumes of the intracranial space, brain, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in healthy control individuals by using in vivo three-dimensional (3D) computerized tomography (CT) data and to compare these data with those obtained from a group with Crouzon syndrome. Methods. Fifty-seven individuals underwent 3D head CT scanning for nonintracranial-related disease to produce a set of normal volumes for the intracranial space, brain, and CSF. Prediction limits of 95% were obtained to provide a range of acceptable volumes throughout the growing period and early adulthood. Eleven patients (seven boys and four girls, age range 2.2 months-13.4 years) with Crouzon syndrome underwent identical measurements, which were compared with those of the control patients. The control group comprised 35 boys and 22 girls who ranged in age from 0.26 months to 24.4 years. Intracranial space and brain volume showed a progressive increase with age, with three different slopes from birth to adulthood. Male patients were found to have larger volumes than female patients in the same age group. Volume patterns for CSF were not significantly different within a given age or sex. Six patients with Crouzon syndrome had intracranial and brain volumes within the 95% prediction limit, three patients measured above the limit, and two measured below. Conclusions. A standard for volumes of intracranial space and structures provides a guideline for the evaluation of patients with intracranial disease. Volumes in patients with Crouzon syndrome can be matched to their normal age- and sex-matched counterparts.