title: Mechanisms of visual loss in papilledema.
abstract: The term "papilledema" indicates swelling of the optic discs secondary to increased intracranial pressure. Papilledema can be caused by an intracranial mass lesion or by other factors. Visual symptoms frequently accompany papilledema, which can lead to permanent visual loss if left untreated. Starting with an illustrative case, the authors review the pathophysiology of the visual signs and symptoms of papilledema. They also briefly review potential treatment options, focusing on the role of the neurosurgeon in the treatment of patients with papilledema.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, New England Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
authors.forename: Clemens M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Schirmer
authors.forename: Thomas R
authors.initials: TR
authors.lastname: Hedges
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D018450:Disease Progression; D005260:Female; D020275:Guillain-Barre Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D010211:Papilledema / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D012164:Retinal Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D041623:Tomography, Optical Coherence; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000209:etiology