Pseudotumor cerebri is a process affecting the brain that appears to be -- but is not -- a tumor. It is often reversible.

The cause for the condition is unknown.

Certain medicines can increase your risk for this condition. These medicines include:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Tetracycline
• Nitrofurantoin
• Isotretinoin
• Minocycline
• Tamoxifen
• Nalidixic acid
• Lithium
• Steroids (starting or stopping them)

The following factors also increase your risk:

• Obesity
• Vitamin A (too much or too little)
• Cushing’s disease
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Hypothyroidism
• Chronic kidney failure
• Anemia

The condition occurs more frequently in women than men, particularly in premenopausal obese women. It is rare in infants.

The major symptom is increased pressure within the skull (increased intracranial pressure). There is no evidence of tumor, infection, blocked drainage of the fluid surrounding the brain, or any other cause.

Symptoms include:

• Headache
• Buzzing sound in the ears (tinnitus)
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Double vision (diplopia)
• Partial or permanent loss of vision. Patients often complain of blurred vision.

Symptoms may get worse during physical activity, especially when tightening the stomach muscles.

The doctor will perform a physical exam. Signs of this condition include:

• Swelling of a small area in the back of the eye (papilledema)
• Increased head size
• Bulging anterior fontanelle in babies whose cranial sutures are not yet closed

Despite the increased pressure in the skull, there is no change in alertness.

Tests that may be done include:

• CT Scan
• MRI
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
• Eye exam, including formal visual field testing

The diagnosis is made when other health conditions are ruled out. Several conditions may cause increased intracranial pressure, including venous sinus thrombosis, hydrocephalus, and an intracranial mass (such as a tumor).