Pseudotumor Cerebri

Question

I have been dealing with a pseudotumor cerebri for the last 16 months. My original problems were terrible headaches, diplopia, and papiledema. I was treated with a lumbar puncture (opening pressure or 22) and started on Diamox May '09. All was pretty well until March '10 when I had a seizure and my headaches came back, my vision remained normal though. I had a full workup for the seizure including and EEG, MRI, CT, and lumbar puncture etc. The MRI showed a type 1 Chiari Malformation that was not evident on the MRI that I had in 2009. Before the MRI results came in I had a lumbar puncture with an opening pressure of 37. Later that same day, my neurologist called me and told me that I would probably need a shunt put in and referred me to a neurosurgeon. I have not seen the neurosurgeon yet, but will in about 2 weeks. 

My questions are:

1. What type of shunt would be best for my case?
2. Should I be concerned about the Chiari Malformation, or will it likely resolve if I have a shunt put in?

Cath278 · Answer

Hi. I just read your post. Ihave PTC/IIH and a VP shunt for the last 15months. If I can help you in any way please drop me a line. I will answer any questions you may have. Cath278.

Londres70 · Answer

You can also post on the Chiari Malformation Forum too.  They are very informative and helpful.

anuragsrivastava · Answer

Hi, Thank you for your question. In Chiari malformations, the pressure in brain increases which manifests itself as dizziness, diplopia (blurring of vision), migraine like headaches, muscle weakness, facial pain, hearing problems, and extreme fatigue. Sometimes this malformation causes dizziness while working with hands above the shoulder level. Treatment of Chiari malformation depends on the form, severity and associated symptoms. No treatment is required in asymptomatic cases other than regular monitoring. Symptomatic patients may require surgery (posterior fossa decompression surgery). The requirement and pros and cons of surgery in your case should be discussed with your doctor as he knows the severity of problem. Hope this helps.