Benign intracranial hypertension

Abstract

Seven women suffering from irregularities of menstrual function presented with signs and symptoms of intracranial hypertension. The nature of the menstrual abnormalities suggested altered endocrine function and the neurological course proved the intracranial process to be relatively benign. The systemic and intracranial effects of abnormal ovarian and adrenal function are discussed relating benign intracranial hypertension in these patients to others suffering from the same neurological disorder at the time of pregnancy and menarche. In contrast with these other patients, the course of illness in those presented here is more prolonged, less predictable, and associated with periods of exacerbation. Proof of specific hormonal dysfunction is unavailable for definitive medical therapy, and surgical decompression is advocated in its absence.