Pseudotumor cerebri presenting as headache

Pseudotumor cerebri (PTC) is characterized by intracranial hypertension without ventriculomegaly, in the absence of a mass lesion or meningeal process. When there is no secondary cause, it is termed 'idiopathic intracranial hypertension'. Headache is the most common symptom of PTC, present in over 90% of patients. The headache is often disabling and nonspecific in character; thus, ophthalmoscopy is imperative for all patients being evaluated for headache. Visual loss is the major morbidity of PTC, requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent permanent deficits. Medical and surgical treatments are employed, although evidence-based treatment guidelines do not exist. This review discusses the diagnosis, differential diagnosis and management strategies for patients with PTC.