Pseudotumor cerebri Longitudinal study using contrast sensitivity and automated static perimetry

Abstract

The visual function of 13 patients with pseudotumor cerebri (P.C.) was investigated with a test battery including color vision, V.E.P.s, contrast sensitivity (C.S.) and automated static perimetry (A.S.P.).

C.S. and A.S.P. were both undertaken on a Vision R Monitor System. Ten patients were evaluated since the beginning of the papilledema (group I), three after resolution of papilledema (group II). The color vision test was of poor sensitivity. V.E.P.s were normal. In the acute phase, C.S. was altered in 70% of cases. The enlargement of the blind spot was constant and a visual field defect was found in 60% of cases. The changes of the fundus, C.S. and A.S.P. followed the development of papilledema and improved with it. After resolution of papilledema persistent alterations of fundus and A.S.P. were often associated.

C.S. seems to be a more independent parameter, which normalizes most easily but which has not a predictive value for the final visual outcome. For the diagnosis and the pathogenic study, the fundus examination and A.S.P. are the most useful parameters. C.S. may be used as index of surveillance but further studies are necessary.

Key Words:

• pseudotumor cerebri
• idiopathic intracranial hypertension
• papilledema
• visual function study
• contrast sensitivity function
• automated static perimetry
• color vision test
• fluorescein angiography