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Updated: Aug 13, 2026

A Detailed Protocol for Physiological Parameters Acquisition and Analysis in Neurosurgical Critical Patients
Published on: October 17, 2017
[Benign childhood intracranial hypertension]
1Service d'Ophtalmologie du Professeur J.L. Dufier, Hôpital Necker - Enfants Malades, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Faculté de médecine Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris-France.
Benign intracranial hypertension, rare in children, can cause vision loss. While medical treatment is often effective, some pediatric patients require a lumboperitoneal shunt for elevated intracranial pressure.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Neurosurgery
Context:
- Benign intracranial hypertension (BIH), or pseudotumor cerebri, is uncommon in children, typically affecting adults.
- Accurate diagnosis involves excluding other causes of intracranial hypertension.
- Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent permanent visual impairment.
Purpose:
- To present a retrospective study on pediatric cases of benign intracranial hypertension.
- To discuss clinical aspects, etiologies, and physiopathological mechanisms.
- To analyze treatment outcomes and the role of ophthalmologic evaluation.
Summary:
- A retrospective study confirmed BIH in 22 children presenting with headaches and visual disturbances.
- Papilledema was common; medical treatment succeeded in 7 patients, while 15 required a lumboperitoneal shunt due to persistent high intracranial pressure or threatened vision.
- Ophthalmologic examinations were vital for diagnosis and monitoring treatment efficacy.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of ophthalmologic assessment in diagnosing and managing pediatric BIH.
- Underscores that while medical management is primary, surgical intervention (lumboperitoneal shunt) is sometimes necessary.
- Emphasizes differences in BIH etiology between pediatric and adult populations.
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