Pseudotumor

[jenshead]

I'm going to be getting an LP to check for Pseudotumor.  I told the NS ordering it repeatedly about it being done right given my CM and he seemed confident his guy will not cause me any problems.  So hopefully that turns out OK.

My question though is could CM cause a high pressure reading and lead to a misdiagnosis of IIH?

I see a potential catch 22.  The two conditions are similar symptom-wise, so hard to tell the diff.  If I have surgery for CM, it may not work if IIH was the problem all along.  If I have a shunt for the IIH, it can make the CM worse.  If I just deal with it like I have been and it is IIH, I could go blind.

Thoughts??  Thanks as usual!

[selmaS]

  U r so right, they do test with the meds to see where u r as far as what ur pressure will take...not sure tho if u r not high enuff they will not do surgery.....at least this is what another member just went thru....I pray u have  a better experience then she did.

  Please keep us posted

    "selma"

[jenshead]

I read the article - thanks.  I mention the Diamox dosage because that seems like a pressure test by itself!  If I can only handle 250, I'd think my pressure isn't terribly high.  Guess the LP will tell for sure.

[selmaS]

  I would hope he would see the difference btwn the 2.......

Oh, ok Diamox...well could be that 125 mg more is too much.....u need the right balance...too little CSF can cause issues as well.

  If u r interested I do have an Article by a Dr Jane....something or other...lol... and it is bout shunts....see my profile page ...it is in my  journal.

Good luck

  "selma"

[jenshead]

That does give me a little insight.  I've heard of PTC causing CM, but Dr. Heffez would have recognized that right?  I'd think someone like him would see the bone defect vs random herniation..but who knows.  Maybe I will give his office a call.

I am already on the meds for PTC.  Diamox...but most people with PTC need a much higher dose than I am taking.  I take 250mg (pediatric dose) and it helps a ton, but if I take even 125mg more my symptoms get worse.  This NS was talking about putting a shunt in..but if I'm that touchy, I'm worried about whether or not that's a good idea.

Thanks.  Will let you know how LP goes.  Rest will be interesting since it will be an hour drive back home...might have to arrange for a bed there.

[selmaS]

  If I remember correctly it could be the other way round....the tonsils can herniate as a result of PTC....A CSF obstruction can increase pressure...but with MRI's it should be obvious as to what is the real issue is, but if an obstruction is not apparent they may deem the high CSF pressure  as idiopathic in nature-meaning no known cause.

Some have developed this post op, some have had it b4 surgery.....

The LP should be able to give the dr a bit more insight....meds may be used to reduce the fluid.

  Do rest after the LP..stay flat as much as possible.....and keep us posted!

  "selma"