Pseudotumor cerebri syndrome, sometimes called idiopathic intercranial hypertension, is a neurological condition characterized by increased intercranial pressure, indicating that there is too much cerebrospinal fluid in the skull. The name of this condition literally translates to "false brain tumor" because the symptoms and presentation can mimic that of a brain tumor. Fortunately, pseudotumor cerebri syndrome is much less dangerous than a brain tumor, and there are several options that can be used to treat it to relieve pressure and treat symptoms.
This condition occurs most often in women between the ages of 20 and 50. It is more common in people who are overweight and in people who take certain medications, along with people who have underlying conditions such as lupus. The condition has also been observed more frequently among pregnant women. It is caused by an overproduction of cerebrospinal fluid or inadequate reabsorption and drainage, which causes the fluid to begin to accumulate in the skull, pressing on the brain and causing some very distinctive symptoms.
People with pseudotumor cerebri syndrome tend to experience headaches, vision changes, nausea, vomiting, and a sensation of a pulse in the head, all classic signs of a large brain tumor. These symptoms in combination are a signal that it is time to go to the doctor, ideally a neurologist. A neurologist will usually order a medical imaging study when the patient presents with these symptoms, to get to the bottom of what is causing them. In the case of pseudotumor cerebri syndrome, no tumor will be seen, but there will be an obvious buildup of fluid in the skull.
Medications can sometimes be used to reduce fluid buildup in the skull, and in some cases, lifestyle changes such as losing weight or stopping the use of certain medications, such as birth control, can also address the problem. In other cases, surgery may be needed to drain the fluid. A surgeon may also choose to install a shunt that allows the fluid to drain so it can't build up again.
Once treated, pseudotumor cerebri syndrome may recur, in which case patients may need to seek more aggressive treatment options. If the condition is not treated, it can lead to permanent vision loss or damage as a result of pressure against the eye, making it important to receive proper treatment, even if it may involve some discomfort or an adjustment in style of wearing. life.