Pediatric Pseudotumor Cerebri Syndrome: Diagnosis, Classification, and Underlying Pathophysiology

Semin Pediatr Neurol. 2017 May;24(2):110-115. doi: 10.1016/j.spen.2017.04.002. Epub 2017 Apr 7.

Abstract

Pseudotumor cerebri syndrome (PTCS) is defined by the presence of elevated intracranial pressure in the setting of normal brain parenchyma and cerebrospinal fluid. PTCS can occur in the pediatric and adult populations and, if untreated, may lead to permanent visual loss. In this review, discussion will focus on PTCS in the pediatric population and will outline its distinct epidemiology and key elements of diagnosis, evaluation and management. Finally, although the precise mechanisms are unclear, the underlying pathophysiology will be considered.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain / diagnostic imaging
  • Brain / physiopathology
  • Child
  • Disease Management
  • Humans
  • Pseudotumor Cerebri / classification*
  • Pseudotumor Cerebri / diagnosis*
  • Pseudotumor Cerebri / epidemiology
  • Pseudotumor Cerebri / physiopathology