Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (Pseudotumor Cerebri)
Causes of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Michael Wall, MD
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
University of Iowa
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed
Creation Date: 1991
Last Revision Date: 2001
Although we do not know what causes IIH, we have many clues. The condition
occurs mostly in women in the childbearing years. The symptoms often
start or worsen during a period of weight gain. The disease is rare
in thin men. This has led some researchers to look for hormonal changes
within the body. To date no consistent changes in hormones have been
found. As a part of our research program, we are trying to find some
hormonal changes in a newly discovered hormone.
Although no associated conditions besides recent weight gain are usually
found, many conditions have been linked to high intracranial pressure.
Any disorder that blocks the flow of spinal fluid between the brain
and its route to the blood, the jugular vein, can cause raised pressure.
For example, scarring cells next to the brain that absorb the spinal
fluid (the arachnoid granulations) can cause raised pressure. Similarly,
blood clots in the veins draining the brain can cause increased intracranial
pressure. Withdrawal of steroids, large doses of vitamin A or intake
of foods containing considerable vitamin A (such as liver), use of body
building-type steroids and possibly certain drugs such as tetracycline
and lithium can cause raised intracranial pressure. These conditions
can mimic IIH.
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