Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension, as the name suggests, is a condition characterized by an abnormal elevation in the intracranial pressure, in the absence of any expansive lesion or ventricular dilation. Since the signs and symptoms of the condition are very similar to that of brain tumor, the disease is also known as pseudotumor cerebri (PC). Most of the symptoms are non-specific, such as headache, nausea, transient visual obscurations and double vision, rhythmic sound in the ears (pulsatile tinnitus), lethargy, mood change and dizziness. The primary hallmark of IIH is bilateral, asymmetric, or unilateral papilloedema, caused by atrophy of the optic nerve. If left untreated, the papilloedema may result in blindness. The pathophysiology of the disease is unclear. However, it is proposed that increased resistance to absorption of CSF across the arachnoid villi may be the causative factor of the increased fluid pressure.
This disease predominantly affects obese women of child bearing age, or reaching menarche. Diagnosis involves imaging techniques like CT and MRI scans of the brain, along with orbital ultrasound. The primary aim of treatment is to reduce the intracranial pressure. Diuretics and hyperosmotic drugs are administered to promote loss of fluid. Due to the condition's relationship with obesity, weight loss is a necessary part of the treatment strategy. A majority of the patients respond to medication within three to five months, failing which surgical intervention is considered. Surgery involves therapeutic shunting, wherein the spinal fluid is made to drain into the abdominal cavity via a tube.