is pseudotumor cerebri possible without papilledema?

[jess4412]

I was just wondering if pseudotumor cerebri can occur without papilledema.  I've been on accutane and present some worrisome symptoms (severe pounding headaches, dizziness, vision blur, sometimes nausea), but my opthamologist saw no papilladema, so at this point it's kind of a mystery as to why I have been experiencing this for the past month.  I have been off accutane for a month now.  I did get prescribed glasses to see if wearing them reduces symptoms, but I'm just very nervous about this!

[Cath278]

Any time. If you need any help with it all, message me, and I will reply. Best of luck, Cath278

[jess4412]

thank you cath! this was very informative.  I'm a little bit anxious about whats going on with me but i guess i'll see how the next three weeks go.

[Cath278]

Hi jessie. Yes, you can have PTC/IIH with out papilledema.
It can cause problems, the lack of paps  in getting a diagnoses..
I  think, from what I know, if you do not have paps or some people do not have headaches, then they are just lucky!

You need to have a lumber puncture done to decided if you do have it. It is the gold star test for a correct diagnoses.
But usually, you have the less invasive tests first, like a Cat scan, MRI. If these come back negative, then the next step is a lp.

Can I ask why you are taking accutane? Its Vitamin A supplement, right? If this correct, then you could have PTC? IIH from it. It is a know trigger for this illness.

If, I can be any further help, drop me a line. I have IIH.
(That's its more up to date, world wise recognised name)
It stands for Idiopathic Intracranial hypertension.
Best of luck. Cath278

[jess4412]

SOMEBODY has to know the answer to this please!!! I am like going crazy here!