14-Year-Old Boy Diagnosed with Rare Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension at Ankura Hospital
Hyderabad: A rare case of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) was recently diagnosed in a 14-year-old boy at Ankura Hospital for Women & Children, Gachibowli.
The patient, who had been suffering from recurring headaches for five years, experienced worsening symptoms, including weight gain, dizziness, and light sensitivity, prompting his parents to seek medical attention at the hospital.
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) is a condition characterized by increased pressure within the skull, without an obvious cause, such as a brain tumour or other diseases. This elevated pressure can lead to symptoms such as severe headaches, vision problems, dizziness, and nausea.
While more common in women, IIH can affect individuals of any gender and age, with obesity often being a contributing factor. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to manage the condition and prevent long-term complications, including vision loss.
Dr. K. Uday Kumar, Paediatric Intensivist at Ankura Hospital, explained, “The child had been suffering from headaches for a long period, affecting his academic performance and daily activities. As this appeared to be more than a common headache, a consultation with a Paediatric Neurologist at our centre was sought.”
Dr. Amol Kumar Jadhav, Paediatric Neurologist at Ankura Hospital, elaborated, “Based on the child’s complaint of increased headaches at night and early morning, which got particularly worse when lying down, we suspected it to be Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension. After discussing with his parents and conducting advanced diagnostics, including MRI and CSF analysis, we confirmed the diagnosis. The CSF pressure was found to be 34 cm of water, significantly higher than normal, and neuroimaging revealed features of IIH.”
Dr. Jadhav further emphasized the importance of early diagnosis: “Missed diagnoses in conditions like IIH can have serious health consequences. Though more common in females, it’s always prudent to suspect IIH in males too, especially if they are obese and have typical symptoms. Identifying this condition early is crucial for effective management.”
Dr. Krishna Prasad Vunnam, Medical Director at Ankura Hospital, noted, “At Ankura Hospital, we are committed to identifying and managing even the most challenging medical conditions. Diagnosing this rare case of idiopathic intracranial hypertension in a young patient highlights the importance of early detection and specialized care. Our team worked carefully to ensure accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment, offering the best possible outcome for the patient.”
The case underscores the significance of timely medical intervention and specialized diagnostics in managing rare and complex health conditions.
Rishika Verma is a graduate from Delhi University. She joined Medical Dialogues in 2023. Her interest lies in reporting health news, hospital updates, health updates, medical case studies, and advancements in healthcare, etc.