Pseudotumor Cerebri: Worry or not?

As its name suggests, pseudotumor cerebri is a false tumor of the brain, which is mimic of malignant brain tumors. It is caused by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid ( or decrease absorption) in the subarachnoid space surrounding the brain, causing symptoms of headache, nausea, vomiting, due to an increase in intracranial pressure.

Pseudotumor cerebri mostly affects women in their early and middle adulthood ( 25-45). Although it is thought to be a benign tumor, it can become malignant, as it compresses brain structures and cause brain tumor symptoms at long term.

Treatment involves diuretics and hyperosmotic drugs, so as to reduce the fluid buildup ( which is the cause of the condition). Also, like in hydrocephalus, therapeutic shunting can be made, in order to redirect the excess of CSF in the peritoneal cavity where it can easily be reabsorbed.

Early diagnosis of Pseudotumor cerebri reduces the risks of complications.