Risk Factors Linked To Pseudotumor Cerebri

Pseudotumor cerebri, also known as idiopathic intracranial hypertension, is a neurological condition in which there is abnormally high pressure in the brain. The elevated pressure develops when an excessive amount of cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the brain itself; this accumulation can happen because of increased cerebrospinal fluid production or decreased cerebrospinal fluid absorption. The symptoms of this benign condition mimic those of a malignant brain tumor. Patients typically have vision loss, blurry vision, or double vision, and they may also have dizziness, vomiting, and nausea. These symptoms are generally accompanied by tinnitus, trouble walking, stiffness in the neck, and frequent headaches. Some pseudotumor cerebri patients could develop depression, and lapses in short-term memory are common. To diagnose this condition, doctors perform a physical examination, including a neurological examination. Tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, eye function studies, and a spinal tap are used to confirm a diagnosis. Thankfully, there are effective treatments for pseudotumor cerebri.