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Idiopathic intracranial hypertension in children and adolescents

I U Scott1, R M Siatkowski, M Eneyni

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, FL 33136, USA.

Insights

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) affects boys and girls equally in childhood. While obesity is less common than in adults, other associated conditions are frequently observed in pediatric patients with IIH.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Ophthalmology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a neurological condition affecting intracranial pressure.
  • Understanding IIH in pediatric populations is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
  • Previous studies have primarily focused on adult demographics and associated conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the sex distribution of idiopathic intracranial hypertension in children and adolescents.
  • To assess the frequency of obesity and other associated conditions in this pediatric cohort.
  • To compare findings in children and adolescents with those reported in adult IIH populations.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective chart review of patients aged 18 years or younger diagnosed with IIH between 1988 and 1995.
  • Inclusion of data from two medical centers.
  • Meta-analysis combining reviewed data with previously published literature.

Main Results:

  • A total of 374 pediatric patients were analyzed, with a near-equal sex distribution (46.8% male, 53.2% female).
  • Obesity was present in 29.6% of evaluable patients.
  • Associated conditions or secondary causes were identified in 53.2% of patients.

Conclusions:

  • Idiopathic intracranial hypertension affects pediatric males and females with similar frequency.
  • The prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents with IIH is lower compared to adult cohorts.
  • A significant proportion of pediatric IIH cases are associated with other conditions or secondary causes, highlighting the need for comprehensive evaluation.
Abstract

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