Jj. Craig et al., Idiopathic intracranial hypertension; incidence, presenting features and outcome in Northern Ireland (1991-1995), ULSTER MED, 70(1), 2001, pp. 31-35
Objectives: to determine the age and sex specific incidence rates, presenti
ng features, and visual outcome of idiopathic intracranial hypertension in
Northern Ireland.
Methods: A case-note review of all patients with idiopathic intracranial hy
pertension, diagnosed at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast between 1991
and 1995.
Results: Forty-two patients were identified corresponding to an average ann
ual incidence rate per 100,000 persons of 0.5 for the total and 0.9 for the
female population. The commonest presenting symptoms were headache (84%),
transient visual obscurations (61%) and sustained visual loss (34%). Impair
ed Snellen visual acuity and visual field loss were documented in 21% and 6
2% of patients respectively at presentation, and ill 24% and 39% at last fo
llow-up. One patient suffered deterioration in visual functioning sufficien
t to interfere with normal daily activities.
Conclusions: The age and sex specific incidence rates of IIH in Northern Ir
eland are lower than have been reported in previous population-based series
. Disabling visual loss occurs in a small number of patients despite all in
terventions.