pseudotumor cerebri
Pronunciation: SOO-do-too-mor seh-REE-bry
Also written as: IIH — idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Condition of increased intracranial pressure without identifiable cause, also called idiopathic intracranial hypertension.
Full Definition
Pseudotumor cerebri, now more commonly termed idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), is a neurological disorder characterized by increased intracranial pressure in the absence of an identifiable underlying cause such as a mass lesion, hydrocephalus, or infection. The condition predominantly affects young, obese women of childbearing age. Symptoms include headache, visual disturbances, and papilledema. Neuroimaging typically shows normal or small ventricles, empty sella, optic nerve sheath distension, and sometimes cerebellar tonsillar ectopia. The diagnosis requires elevated opening pressure on lumbar puncture with normal cerebrospinal fluid composition.
Usage
Usage note: Note that 'idiopathic intracranial hypertension' is the preferred modern term.
In Context
- "MRI findings are consistent with pseudotumor cerebri, showing empty sella and bilateral optic nerve sheath distension." — Neuroradiology report
- "The patient's presentation is classic for pseudotumor cerebri in a young obese female." — Clinical correlation note