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In this Article

• What is pseudotumor cerebri (Idiopathic intracranial hypertension)?
• What are the symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri?
• How is pseudotumor cerebri treated?
• What is the prognosis for patient's with pseudotumor cerebri?
• For more information about pseudotumor cerebri
• Find a local Neurologist in your town
• Pseudotumor Cerebri Index

Symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri include symptoms that closely mimic large brain tumors:

• headache,
  
  
• nausea,
  
  
• vomiting, and
  
  
• pulsating sounds within the head.

• Obesity, other treatable diseases, and some medications can cause raised intracranial pressure and symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri.
  
  
• A thorough medical history and physical examination is needed to evaluate these factors.
  
  
• If a diagnosis of pseudotumor cerebri is confirmed, close, repeated ophthalmologic exams are required to monitor any changes in vision.
  
  
• Drugs may be used to reduce fluid buildup and to relieve pressure.
  
  
• Weight loss and cessation of certain drugs (including oral contraceptives, tetracycline, and a variety of steroids) may lead to improvement.
  
  
• Surgery may be needed to remove pressure on the optic nerve. Therapeutic shunting, which involves surgically inserting a tube to drain CSF from the lower spine into the abdominal cavity, may be needed to remove excess CSF and relieve CSF pressure.