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Idiopathic intracranial hypertension in children: the Iowa experience
P Babikian1, J Corbett, W Bell
1Department of Neurology, University of Mississippi, Jackson.
Insights
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is rare in children, affecting males and females equally. Obesity is noted in one-third of cases, with various treatments available.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a rare neurological disorder.
- It primarily affects women of childbearing age but can occur in children.
- Obesity is a significant risk factor, present in about one-third of patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the 30-year institutional experience with idiopathic intracranial hypertension.
- To discuss symptomatic causes of intracranial hypertension in children.
- To outline medical and surgical therapeutic options for IIH.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of a 30-year institutional experience.
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical presentation, and outcomes.
- Literature review of symptomatic causes and treatment modalities.
Main Results:
- IIH is uncommon in pediatric populations, with an incidence of approximately one case per year in a large referral center.
- Equal sex incidence observed in pediatric cases.
- Obesity is a notable comorbidity in approximately one-third of affected children.
Conclusions:
- Idiopathic intracranial hypertension in children requires careful diagnosis and management.
- Understanding symptomatic causes is crucial for appropriate treatment.
- A range of medical and surgical interventions can be employed for IIH management.
Abstract:
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is an uncommon condition in children and is seen only about once a year in a large referral hospital. Sex incidence is equal, and obesity is a feature in about one third of patients. This article reviews the 30-year experience in an institution where idiopathic intracranial hypertension in adults has been extensively studied. Symptomatic causes of intracranial hypertension and both medical and surgical therapeutic options are reviewed.