Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a disorder characterized by elevated intracranial pressure without an identifiable mass lesion or hydrocephalus. Clinical manifestations include headache, visual disturbances, pulsatile tinnitus, and papilledema. Pathophysiology is incompletely understood but may involve impaired cerebrospinal fluid absorption, venous outflow obstruction, or metabolic factors. Diagnosis requires neuroimaging to exclude secondary causes and lumbar puncture demonstrating elevated opening pressure. Management includes weight reduction, acetazolamide therapy, surgical interventions (shunting or optic nerve sheath fenestration), and close ophthalmologic follow-up; prognosis is generally favorable if vision is preserved.