Pseudotumor cerebri.
OBJECTIVE
To discuss the current standard in diagnosis and treatment of pseudotumor cerebri (PTC), the syndrome of increased intracranial pressure without a brain tumor. Since PTC is a diagnosis of exclusion, the differential diagnostic work-up is of special importance.


RESULTS
Modern imaging techniques have facilitated the differential diagnosis of PTC. Various therapeutic options are available to prevent irreversible visual loss. New treatment modalities are being explored, but the standard therapy has undergone little change in the past years.


CONCLUSIONS
PTC, a potentially blinding disease, most commonly manifests with headache and slightly blurred vision due to papilledema. This review seeks to present a methodical approach to its diagnosis and treatment.
Mathews
Michaela K
MK
Wills Eye Hospital, Neuro-Ophthalmology Service, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. michikm@earthlink.net
Sergott
Robert C
RC
Savino
Peter J
PJ
D000086:Acetazolamide / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002257:Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D018810:Magnetic Resonance Angiography; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D011559:Pseudotumor Cerebri / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D013129:Spinal Puncture; D015431:Weight Loss
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D002257:Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors; D000086:Acetazolamide