Lumbar Puncture

Lumbar Puncture - A procedure in which a needle is inserted into the lower part of the spinal column in order to remove cerebrospinal fluid, or to inject medication. A lumbar puncture may be used to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid in order to detect the presence of certain types of cancer or infection. Lumbar punctures may also be used to inject medications, such as spinal anesthesia or chemotherapy drugs. Also called a spinal tap.

Previous: Locally Advanced Cancer

Next: Lumpectomy

Back to the Cancer Glossary