Pseudotumor cerebri syndrome, sometimes called idiopathic intercranial hypertension, is a neurological condition characterized by an increase in intercranial pressure, indicating that there is too much cerebrospinal fluid in the skull. The name of this condition literally translates as “fake brain tumor,” because the symptoms and presentation can mimic those of a brain tumor. Fortunately, pseudotumor cerebri syndrome is far less dangerous than a brain tumor, and there are several options which can be used to treat it to relieve the pressure and address the symptoms.
This condition most commonly arises 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 in increased frequency among pregnant women. It is caused either by an overproduction of cerebrospinal fluid, or by inadequate reabsorption and drainage, which causes the fluid to start to build up 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 pulsing sensation 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 to a neurologist. Typically, a neurologist will request 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 visible, but there will be an obvious accumulation of fluid in the skull.
Medications can sometimes be used to reduce the buildup of fluid in the skull, and in some cases, lifestyle changes such as losing weight or ceasing the use of certain medications such as birth control can also address the issue. In other instances, it may be necessary to perform surgery to drain the fluid. A surgeon may also opt to install a shunt which will permit the fluid to drain so that it cannot build up again.
Once treated, pseudotumor cerebri syndrome can 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, which makes it important to receive the proper treatment, even if it may involve some discomfort or lifestyle adjustment.
