A benign process affecting the brain which appears to be, but is not a tumor. It is characterized by increased intracranial pressure and normal brain ventricle size. There is no evidence of tumor, infection, blocked drainage of the fluid surrounding the brain or any other cause.
Alternative Names
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension; Benign intracranial hypertension
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The major symptoms of pseudotumor are increased pressure within the skull ( increased intracranial pressure - ICP ). The cause for the condition itself is unknown, and the diagnosis is made when other health conditions are ruled out. The mechanism causing the elevated ICP is not well understood. Possible causes of pseudotumor cerebri include a defect in Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) absorption, increased cerebral swelling ( edema ) or increased cerebral blood volumes. Other factors which are possibly associated with this condition are recent weight gain, menstrual irregularities, and the presence of too much Vitamin A (hypervitaminosis A). Oral retinoid drugs and some antibiotics are other possible causes as is the stopping of steroid use after an extended period. Other conditions that have been associated with pseudotumour cerebri include renal failure, sleep apnea, and some lung diseases which lead to the retention of carbon dioxide. Less frequently, Guillain-Barre syndrome has been found to be associated.
The condition occurs more frequently in women than men. People with this condition are often obese, with large weight gains during the pre-menstrual part of the cycle. Headache, worse in the morning, is the most common complaint. It may be aggravated by sudden movements, such as coughing. There may be transient loss of vision with a change in position. This has the potential to cause permanent vision loss, if severe and untreated.
In order to make this diagnosis, the most important conditions that need to be ruled out that can cause increased intracranial pressure include venous sinus thrombosis, infection hydrocephalus, or any intracranial mass lesion (such as a tumor).
Treatment
Treatment must be directed at the condition causing the pseudotumor. An initial lumbar puncture is both diagnostic and therapeutic. Repeated lumbar punctures may be done to decrease the intracranial pressure and to help prevent progressive papilledema and visual loss. Other treatments may include:
Fluid and/or salt restriction. Medications: Corticosteroids, glycerol, acetazolamide, and furosemide. Shunting procedures from the lumbar subarachnoid space to the peritoneal cavity. Incision of the optic nerve sheath for relief of the papilledema, and to prevent further deterioration of vision. Weight loss is usually recommended. Close follow-up and monitoring of vision, since there is potential for progressive and sometimes permanent visual loss. Follow-up MRI or CT scan is sometimes necessary to exclude hidden (occult) malignancy (cancer).
Expectations (prognosis)
The outcome varies, and sometimes the condition disappears on its own within 6 months. About 10-20% of the people diagnosed with pseudotumor cerebri experience recurrences, and there is a small percentage who become progressively worse and may eventually become blind.
Complications
Complications may occur in connection with some of the procedures used for treatment or from side effects of the various medications. Vision loss is the main serious complication of this condition.
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if you notice signs of increased pressure within your skull (increased intracranial pressure) or your child's skull, or if you or your child experience the symptoms listed above.