Glossary
Glossary of Terms
Here’s a glossary of terms related to Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH):
- Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH): Also known as pseudotumor cerebri, a condition characterized by increased pressure within the skull without a clear cause.
- Intracranial Pressure (ICP): The pressure inside the skull and thus in the brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid.
- Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF): A clear, colorless fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, providing cushioning and nutrients.
- Papilledema: Swelling of the optic disc (where the optic nerve enters the eye) caused by increased intracranial pressure.
- Visual Field Defects: Loss of part of the visual field, often a result of pressure on the optic nerves.
- Headache: A common symptom of IIH, often described as a dull, throbbing pain, typically worse in the morning and with changes in position.
- Tinnitus: Ringing or buzzing in the ears, which can be a symptom of IIH.
- Diplopia: Double vision, which can occur due to pressure on the nerves controlling eye movement.
- Obesity: A risk factor for IIH, as excess body weight is associated with increased intracranial pressure.
- Lumbar Puncture (LP): A procedure to remove a sample of cerebrospinal fluid from the spinal canal for diagnostic purposes or to reduce pressure.
- Optic Nerve Sheath Fenestration: A surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the optic nerve by creating a small window in the sheath surrounding the nerve.
- Venous Sinus Stenting: A procedure to open narrowed or blocked veins in the brain, which can help reduce intracranial pressure in some cases.
- Acetazolamide: A medication commonly used to reduce the production of cerebrospinal fluid and lower intracranial pressure.
- Topiramate: A medication that can be used to prevent migraines and reduce intracranial pressure in IIH.
- Weight Loss: Losing excess weight can help reduce intracranial pressure in people with IIH.
- Neuroimaging: Imaging techniques such as MRI or CT scans used to assess the brain and identify possible causes of increased intracranial pressure.
- Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt: A surgical procedure to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain into the abdominal cavity, reducing intracranial pressure.
- Neuro-ophthalmologist: A doctor specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of visual problems related to neurological conditions.
- Pseudotumor cerebri Syndrome (PTCS): Another term used to describe IIH, emphasizing the clinical symptoms of increased intracranial pressure.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep, which is a risk factor for IIH.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): A non-invasive imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain and other soft tissues.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography Scan): A diagnostic imaging procedure that uses x-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body, including the brain.
- Neurological Examination: A series of tests and assessments used to evaluate the function of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
- Vision Loss: Severe or permanent vision loss can occur in some cases of IIH if not properly managed.
- Cranial Nerves: The 12 pairs of nerves that emerge from the brain and control various functions, including vision, eye movement, and facial sensation and movement.