CSF, Ventricles & Brain Anatomy
Foramen of Luschka
The foramina of Luschka are the two side outlets of the fourth ventricle, through which cerebrospinal fluid exits into the spaces around the brain.
In short: Foramen of Luschka
- There are two, one on each side of the fourth ventricle.
- They are exit points for CSF from the ventricular system.
- Blockage can contribute to hydrocephalus.
- They are among the outlets of the fourth ventricle.
What it is
The foramina of Luschka are the two lateral (side) openings of the fourth ventricle, through which CSF passes out of the ventricular system into the subarachnoid space around the brain. There is one on each side.
Understanding Foramen of Luschka
Along with the single midline foramen of Magendie, the foramina of Luschka are the outlets through which CSF leaves the fourth ventricle and enters the spaces around the brain to be circulated and absorbed. If these outlets are blocked — for example, by scarring, a malformation, or a tumor — CSF cannot exit normally, which can cause hydrocephalus affecting all four ventricles. They are part of the anatomy doctors consider when localizing a blockage.
Why it matters
Understanding the foramina of Luschka helps families see how CSF exits the ventricular system and why blockage of these outlets can contribute to hydrocephalus.
Common questions
Where are the foramina of Luschka?
On the two sides of the fourth ventricle.
What do they do?
They let CSF exit into the spaces around the brain.
Can blockage cause hydrocephalus?
Yes — it can affect all four ventricles.
Bottom line
The foramina of Luschka are the two side outlets of the fourth ventricle for CSF; blockage can contribute to hydrocephalus.
Browse all 265 Hydrocephalus definitions
Read the Hydrocephalus patient guides
Not sure which page you need? Put words to it with the symptom navigator