papilledema
Pronunciation: pap-ih-leh-DEE-mah
Swelling of the optic disc caused by increased intracranial pressure.
Full Definition
Papilledema is optic disc swelling that results from increased intracranial pressure transmitted along the optic nerve sheath. It is a critical clinical sign that may indicate serious intracranial pathology such as brain tumors, intracranial hemorrhage, or idiopathic intracranial hypertension. The swelling typically develops over hours to days and is usually bilateral. Early detection requires careful fundoscopic examination, as patients may be asymptomatic initially. Papilledema can lead to permanent visual loss if the underlying increased intracranial pressure is not promptly addressed.
Usage
Usage note: Always differentiate from optic neuritis and pseudopapilledema in documentation.
In Context
- "Fundoscopy revealed bilateral papilledema with obscured disc margins." — Neuro-ophthalmology examination
- "The presence of papilledema prompted urgent neuroimaging to exclude mass lesion." — Emergency department assessment