Causes and risk factors
Papilledema is a sign of raised intracranial pressure. Several conditions can raise the ICP such as tumors of the brain, intracranial hemorrhages, Foster-Kennedy syndrome, and Guillain-Barre syndrome. Eye conditions such as optic neuritis and glaucoma can also cause papilledema. Other causes include pseudotumor cerebri, malignant hypertension, and respiratory failure. Several other lesser known causes have also been identified that can lead to the development of papilledema.
Clinical presentation
In the initial phases, papilledema may not be associated with any symptoms. As the underlying disease progresses, symptoms start developing.
Later symptoms include blurring of vision and development of a blind spot; eventually leading to a total loss of vision.
Headache is one of the frequently occurring symptoms. Other symptoms will be present depending upon the cause of papilledema.
Investigations
A detailed eye exam is carried out via ophthalmoscopy and slit lamp examination. The physician usually finds the following signs:
- Engorged veins with loss of pulsation
- Elevated optic disc with adjacent hemorrhages
- Paton’s lines, which are characteristic retinal lines radiating from the optic disc
Treatment
The treatment will be decided on the basis of the underlying cause of papilledema. The possible treatment options include:
- Use of medications such as diuretics and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Carrying out a procedure known as ‘lumbar puncture’
- Laser treatment
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery
Complications
If papilledema is not treated, it may eventually lead to permanent blindness.
When to contact a doctor
Contact a doctor as soon as you experience any abnormal eye symptoms along with headache or vomiting.
Systems involved
Ophthalmic
Organs involved
Eye, brain
