Pseudotumor cerebri
Definition
Pseudotumor cerebri is a process affecting the brain that appears to be -- but is not -- a tumor. It is often reversible.
Alternative Names
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension; Benign intracranial hypertensionCauses
The cause for the condition is unknown.
Certain medicines can increase your risk for this condition. These medicines include:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Tetracycline
- Nitrofurantoin
- Isotretinoin
- Minocycline
- Tamoxifen
- Nalidixic acid
- Lithium
- Steroids (starting or stopping them)
The following factors also increase your risk:
- Obesity
- Vitamin A (too much or too little)
- Cushing’s disease
- Hypoparathyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Chronic kidney failure
- Anemia
The condition occurs more frequently in women than men, particularly in premenopausal obese women. It is rare in infants.
References
Jonnalagadda J. Lithium, minocycline, and pseudotumor cerebri. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. March 1, 2005; 44(3): 209.
Behrman RE. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 17th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004; 2048-2049.
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