Paediatric idiopathic intracranial hypertension: Epidemiology, clinical features and treatment outcomes in a tertiary care centre in Western Australia

Snehal Shah, Aleksandra Khan, Mohd Khan, Rahul Lakshmanan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Aim
This retrospective study aims to analyse the epidemiology, clinical and neuroimaging features, treatment modalities, and outcomes of paediatric idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) in a tertiary care centre in Australia.

Methods
Using the International Classification of Diseases Diagnostic Criteria for IIH, we identified and analysed a cohort of children diagnosed with IIH over a 5-year period (2017–2022). Data on patient demographics, symptomatology, examination findings, investigative results, treatments and outcomes were collected from medical records and electronic health records.

Results
A total of 45 cases were analysed. The pre-pubertal group saw a male predominance and the post-pubertal a female one. Increased body mass index was an associated comorbidity in majority of patients. Headaches (89%) and visual symptoms (56%) were the most common symptoms, with tinnitus also seen in 20% of patients. Papilledema was detected in 91% of the cases examined. The commonest neuroimaging features were optic nerve sheath distention (78%) and empty sella (49%). Acetazolamide was the primary treatment, with most patients responding well. Only a minority required surgical intervention. Long-term resolution of headaches was achieved in 89% of patients.

Conclusions
The incidence of paediatric IIH in the West Australian population appears relatively high. It presents with subtle symptoms, emphasising the need for increased awareness among health-care providers. Younger children may represent a distinct subgroup with unique clinical features. Timely diagnosis and aggressive medical management lead to favourable outcomes. However, weight loss interventions showed limited effectiveness. This study underscores the importance of early recognition and management of paediatric IIH to optimise patient outcomes.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)499-504
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of Paediatrics and Child Health
Volume60
Issue number10
Early online date16 Jul 2024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 2024

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