Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Overview

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a disorder in which the fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid, or CSF) accumulates abnormally for an unknown reason, causing increased pressure within the skull.

Because the symptoms of idiopathic intracranial hypertension can mimic those of a brain tumor, the disorder is also known as pseudotumor cerebri, which means “false brain tumor.” The increased pressure can cause swelling of the optic nerve and subsequent vision loss.

In This Article

1. Overview
2. Symptoms
3. Treatments
4. Resources
5. References

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Treatments

The first line of treatment for idiopathic intracranial hypertension is weight loss. This is often curative, but medications may be used to lower pressure during the weight loss process. One of these medications is called acetazolamide (Diamox), which lowers production of spinal fluid in the brain. Preventive and acute headache treatment will also be utilized if necessary.

In rare cases, surgery may be needed. Surgical interventions, such as the placement of a shunt, are reserved for people who have rapid vision loss or whose pressure/headaches are not helped by medications and weight loss.

Close monitoring of vision and optic nerve swelling is vital in IIH, as vision loss can be permanent and complete blindness can occur. If there are rapid changes in vision or the appearance of the optic nerves, treatment needs to be changed quickly. Sometimes the patient doesn’t notice vision changes that are picked up on the formal testing, so it is important to see the neuro-ophthalmologist or ophthalmologist for this testing as recommended.