Benign intracranial hypertension

Abstract

The self-limiting nature of benign intracranial hypertension is described in 10 pubertal females at the time of menarche. Although no confirmatory laboratory evidence is presented, the syndrome is thought to be related to the direct or indirect effects of ovarian harmones upon the intracranial contents. This theory is postulated on the basis of experimental evidence presented elsewhere indicating a mild increase in brain water content in the immature female rat given estrogen injections and on previous clinical reports of benign intracranial hypertension in sexually mature females who suffered from menstrual irregularities, menstrual edema, and headaches.