Abstract
Pseudotumor cerebri syndrome (PTCS) is defined by the presence of elevated intracranial
pressure in the context of normal brain parenchyma and normal cytologic and chemical
analyses of the cerebrospinal fluid. The presenting signs and symptoms of PTCS are
various and usually include headache, papilledema, and visual disturbances (e.g.,
vision loss, double vision). Idiopathic intracranial hypertension, which is the primary
form of PTCS, generally affects postpubertal overweight women of childbearing age.
Secondary PTCS refers to a clinical diagnosis of PTCS attributable to one or more
of a variety of identifiable causes, including venous sinus thrombosis, medications,
and medical conditions other than obesity alone. The diverse clinical spectrum of
pediatric PTCS is becoming increasingly recognized and recent research in this field
is aiming to identify a common pathophysiology. We hereby review the recent diagnostic
criteria and classification of pediatric PTCS.
Keywords
idiopathic intracranial hypertension - pseudotumor cerebri syndrome - children - diagnostic
criteria - classification
