Conservative Management of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks.

Cerebrospinal fluid leaks are a complex clinical challenge with variable causes and management. Conservative therapy focuses on lowering intracranial pressure through bed rest, sinus precautions, antiemetics, bowel regimens, and lumbar drainage. Leaks persisting beyond 1 week may require surgical repair due to meningitis risk. Iatrogenic, postoperative, and spontaneous leaks rarely resolve without surgery, while small traumatic leaks tend to have the highest chance of resolution. Prophylactic antibiotics remain controversial. Management should be tailored to etiology, location, and patient-specific factors.