Pseudotumor Cerebri Clinic

Pseudotumor cerebri is a condition in which the cerebro-spinal fluid (the fluid inside the skull) is not able to drain normally. When this happens, the extra fluid pushes against the brain in the same way a brain tumor would.

Common pseudotumor cerebri symptoms are headache and vision problems. The most common cause of pseudotumor cerebri, in children and adults, is obesity. However, many patients have the condition even if they are not overweight.

The Pseudotumor Cerebri Clinic at Nationwide Children's is the first in the country to provide comprehensive care for children with this condition. Our multidisciplinary group includes physicians from Neurology, Ophthalmology, and the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition. As needed, patients may also be referred to Neurosurgery and Endocrinology.

Listen to Neurology Chief E. Steve Roach talk about pseudotumor cerebri on Good Morning America Health.

Pseudotumor Cerebri Symptoms

• Headache is the most common symptom reported by patients with pseudotumor cerebri.

• Vision problems or vision loss is the most concerning pseudotumor cerebri symptom.

Diagnosing Pseudotumor Cerebri

• Physical exam

• Lumbar puncture

• MRI of the brain

Pseudotumor Cerebri Treatment

• Dietary changes

• Medications

• Surgery (in severe cases)

Physician Referral Information
The Pseudotumor Cerebri Clinic accepts referrals from primary care physicians and pediatric specialists from the United States and internationally. To make a referral, there are three options:

• Request a pseudotumor cerebri clinic appointment

• Fax a referral request to (614) 722-4000

• Make a referral and schedule by phone, call (614) 722-6200 or 1-877-722-6220