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Abstract #2551

Microgravity-induced changes in pituitary morphology, brain volumetry, and cerebral spinal fluid hydrodynamics: relationship to spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome

Larry A. Kramer1, Khader M. Hasan1, Michael B. Stenger2, Ashot Sargsyan2, and Brandon R. Macias2

1Diagnostic Imaging, UTSHC-Houston, Houston, TX, United States, 2NASA, Houston, TX, United States

A longitudinal study of astronauts with long duration exposure to microgravity showed intracranial volumetric expansion which did not return to baseline after a 1 year of post-flight recovery. These findings were associated with increased cerebral spinal fluid pulsatility through the cerebral aqueduct suggesting diminished intracranial compliance. Additionally, there was development of pituitary gland deformity similar to that seen in idiopathic intracranial hypertension implicating the presence of elevated intracranial pressure during spaceflight.

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