Pseudotumor cerebri literally means "false brain tumor." It is likely due to high pressure within the skull caused by the buildup or poor absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The disorder is most common in women between the ages of 20 and 50. Symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri, which include headache, nausea, vomiting, and pulsating sounds within the head, closely mimic symptoms of large brain tumors.
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.
The disorder may cause progressive, permanent visual loss in some patients. In some cases, pseudotumor cerebri recurs.
The NINDS conducts and supports research on disorders of the brain and nervous system, including pseudotumor cerebri. This
research focuses primarily on increasing scientific understanding of these disorders and finding ways to prevent, treat, and
cure them.
Intracranial Hypertension Research Foundation 6517 Buena Vista Drive Vancouver, WA 98661 contact@ihrfoundation.org http://www.IHRFoundation.org Tel: 360-693-4473 Fax: 360-694-7062 |
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) P.O. Box 1968 (55 Kenosia Avenue) Danbury, CT 06813-1968 orphan@rarediseases.org http://www.rarediseases.org Tel: 203-744-0100 Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673) Fax: 203-798-2291 |
Pseudotumor Cerebri Support Network 8247 Riverside Drive Powell, OH 43065 ptcduncan@juno.com http://www.pseudotumorcerebri.com |
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National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
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Last updated September 16, 2008