What is Pseudotumor Cerebri?
Pseudotumor cerebri, also called benign intracranial hypertension, literally means "false brain tumor." It is caused by increased pressure within the brain and is most common in women between the ages of 20 and 50. Symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri, which include headache, nausea, vomiting, and pulsating intracranial noises, closely mimic symptoms of brain tumors, possibly because of the abnormal buildup of pressure within the brain.
Is there any treatment?
Treatment for pseudotumor cerebri is generally symptomatic. Pressure may be controlled by removing excess fluid with repeated spinal taps or by shunting. Steroids may be prescribed to reduce swelling of brain tissue. Drugs to reduce cerebrospinal fluid production or hyperosmotic drugs may be used to reduce fluid buildup.
What is the prognosis?
Once the diagnosis is made and the disorder is treated, pseudotumor cerebri generally has no serious consequences. If visual loss occurs, however, it may be permanent regardless of treatment. In some cases, pseudotumor cerebri recurs.
What research is being done?
The NINDS conducts and supports research on disorders of the brain and nervous system, including pseudotumor cerebri. This research primarily focuses on increasing scientific understanding of these disorders and finding ways to prevent, treat, and cure them.
Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
Intracranial Hypertension Research Foundation
6517 Buena Vista Drive
Vancouver, WA 98661
info@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 Society
750 East Adams Street
c/o Dr. D. Friedman
Syracuse, NY 13210
Tel: 315-464-3937
Fax: 315-464-5006
Pseudotumor Cerebri Support Network
8247 Riverside Drive
Powell, OH 43065
sondra@sprynet.com
http://www.pseudotumorcerebri.com
Tel: 614-794-0442
Fax: 614-794-1403