Raised ICP

Question 1

What is normal ICP?

Answer 1

7-15mmHg

Question 2

Causes of ICH

Answer 2

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Head injury
Infection- Meningitis
Tumours
Hydrocephalus

Question 3

Symptoms of ICH

Answer 3

Headache, vomiting, reduced consciousness, papilledema, Cushing’s triad- widening pulse pressure, bradycardia, irregular breathing.

Question 4

ICH monitoring

Answer 4

CT/MRI to investigate cause

Invasive monitoring- catheter placed into lateral ventricles

Question 5

Management:

Answer 5

Head elevation to 30 degrees.
IV mannitol.
Contrilled hyperventilation to reduce pCO2 -> constrict cerebral arteries -> reduce pressure
Drain off CSF

Question 6

Risk factors for idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Answer 6

Obesity, female, pregnancy, drugs e.g. COCP, steroids, tetracyclines, lithium.

Question 7

Symptoms of idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Answer 7

Headache, blurred vision, papilledema, enlarged blind spot, 6th nerve palsy.

Question 8

Management of idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Answer 8

Weight loss
Diuretics- acetazolamide
Repeated LP
Surgery