Symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri are similar to that of a brain tumor. Intracranial pressure increases, however, there is no mass inside brain. Pseudotumor cerebri is often seen in obese women of childbearing age. Abrupt termination of adrenal cortex hormone therapy or excessive intake of vitamin A or tetracycline can cause it. It can generally subside itself. Signs and symptoms include variable degree of headache and optical nerve swelling. Patients seem to be healthy in all other respects. The only serious concern is partial or complete loss of sight on one or both eyes. Pseudotumor cerebri generally do not cause serious consequences. Treatment aims at controlling symptoms along with appropriate explanation and comfort. Light analgesics can be used to treat headache.
How is Pseudotumor cerebri treated in practice?