Papilledema

Papilledema is bilateral optic-disc swelling due to raised intracranial pressure (from mass, hydrocephalus, idiopathic intracranial hypertension), typically without acute visual loss but with headache. It is a neurosurgical/neurologic sign. Treatment: urgent neuroimaging (CT/MRI venogram) to exclude mass/thrombosis; lumbar puncture to measure ICP and diagnose IIH; treat the underlying cause (decompression/acetazolamide); monitor visual fields.

Common Symptoms

Bilateral optic-disc swelling; headache; transient visual obscurations; no acute painless loss initially

Causes and Pathogenesis

Raised intracranial pressure transmits along the optic-nerve sheath, swelling the disc.

Treatment

Urgent neuroimaging/LP; treat cause (mass/hydrocephalus/IIH); acetazolamide; monitor fields

Preventive Measures

Treat raised ICP; monitor vision.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology/Neurosurgery department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.