[Update on the management of intracranial hypertension syndrome]

Lucas González-Johnson1, Gustavo Zomosa2, Bayron Valenzuela3

  • 1Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.

Revista Medica De Chile
|July 20, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Intracranial hypertension (ICH), or elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), is a serious neurological emergency requiring prompt recognition and management. This review guides general practitioners in diagnosing and treating ICH to improve patient outcomes and reduce mortality.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), also known as intracranial hypertension (ICH), is a critical condition with significant neurological impact, high morbidity, and mortality.
  • Multiple etiologies contribute to ICH, which can progress to brain death if not managed effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a clear and accessible overview of the diagnostic approach and management strategies for intracranial hypertension (ICH).
  • To equip general practitioners with the knowledge to recognize and manage ICH as a neurological emergency.

Main Methods:

  • This review synthesizes current understanding of ICH diagnosis and management.
  • Focus is placed on practical application for general practitioners.

Main Results:

  • Timely recognition of elevated ICP (> 20-25 mmHg) is crucial for successful patient management.
  • Judicious use of invasive monitoring and targeted therapies are key components of effective ICH treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Intracranial hypertension (ICH) necessitates immediate medical attention and management as a neurological emergency.
  • Effective management involves prompt diagnosis, appropriate monitoring, and prompt intervention to address underlying causes.

Related Concept Videos

Open Angle Glaucoma: Treatment01:27

Open Angle Glaucoma: Treatment

In open-angle glaucoma, the iridocorneal angle remains open, but the trabecular meshwork becomes stiff, slowing down the outflow of aqueous humor. This causes a buildup of aqueous humor in the anterior chamber, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. The treatment for open-angle glaucoma focuses on reducing the elevated intraocular pressure by either decreasing the secretion of aqueous humor or increasing its outflow.
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
538
Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment01:28

Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment

Angle-closure glaucoma, or closed-angle glaucoma, is an eye condition where the iris bulges out and blocks the iridocorneal angle, resulting in a buildup of aqueous humor and increased intraocular pressure. Immediate medical attention is necessary due to the sudden onset of symptoms. The treatment for angle-closure glaucoma includes short-term and long-term approaches. Short-term treatment involves using eye drops like pilocarpine to lower intraocular pressure by increasing aqueous humor...
641
Hypertension V: Nursing Management01:23

Hypertension V: Nursing Management

The nursing management of hypertension involves accurately assessing symptoms, making a comprehensive nursing diagnosis, collaborating with patients to set goals, and implementing targeted interventions to mitigate the condition's impact and improve patient well-being.Comprehensive AssessmentThe initial step in nursing care for hypertension involves a thorough patient assessment. It includes evaluating symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and previous hypertension episodes.
36
Glaucoma: Overview01:25

Glaucoma: Overview

Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure that damages the retina and optic nerve, leading to irreversible blindness if left untreated. The human eye has various components, including the cornea, iris, pupil, lens, and optic nerve. Aqueous humor is secreted by the epithelium of the ciliary body in the posterior chamber and flows through the trabecular meshwork and canal of Schlemm, maintaining normal intraocular pressure. The trabecular meshwork and the canal...
718
Nephrotic Syndrome III : Nursing Management01:24

Nephrotic Syndrome III : Nursing Management

Nursing management for nephrotic syndrome adapts as the disease progresses, with strategies evolving to address advancing symptoms and complications.Early-Stage Management In the early stages, nursing interventions for nephrotic syndrome resemble those used in managing acute glomerulonephritis, focusing on symptom monitoring, fluid balance, and managing mild to moderate edema.Vital Signs: Regularly monitor blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, and temperature to promptly identify...
40
Hypertension I: Introduction01:28

Hypertension I: Introduction

Hypertension is a widespread, long-term medical condition where blood pressure in the arteries remains elevated. It is characterized by systolic blood pressure readings of 130 mm Hg or above or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) readings of 80 mm Hg or higher. Unmanaged hypertension poses significant health risks, making the distinction between primary (or essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension crucial, as their management and implications vary.Primary HypertensionPrimary hypertension,...
69