Ankura Hospital for Women & Children has diagnosed a rare case of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) in a 14 year old boy.

The patient was brought to Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli and was suffering from recurring headaches for a long period affecting his academic performance and daily activities. Despite the child parents having sought medical attention multiple times for his recurring headaches including taking chronic analgesics and ayurvedic medications for the past five years, no relief in symptoms. Apart from worsening headaches, the child experiences weight gain and other symptoms like dizziness, and fear of light which eventually led them to visit Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Gachibowli.

Dr K Uday Kumar, a Pediatric Intensivist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, said, “The child had been suffering from headaches for a long period, affecting his academic performance and daily activities. As this appeared to be more than a common headache, a consultation with a Paediatric Neurologist at our center was sought.”

Dr Amol Kumar Jadhav, Paediatric Neurologist, Ankura Hospital, Gachibowli, said, “Based on the child’s complaint of increased headaches at night and in early morning, which got particularly worse when lying down, we suspected it to be Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension. After discussing with his parents the use of advanced diagnostics including MRI of the brain and CSF analysis and taking their approval, we have confirmed the underlying problem. The CSF pressure was found to be 34 cm of water, which is significantly higher than normal pressure, and neuroimaging revealed features of IIH thus confirming the diagnosis of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension in the child. “

Dr Amol Kumar informed, “Missed diagnoses in conditions like IIH can have serious health consequences. It also increases everyday debility for the patients and their families. Though more common in females, it’s always prudent to suspect IIH in males too, especially if they are obese and have typical symptoms. Identifying this condition early is crucial for effective management.”

According to Dr Krishna Prasad Vunnam, Medical Director, Ankura Hospital, Hyderabad said, “At Ankura Hospital, we are committed to identifying and managing even the most challenging medical conditions. Diagnosing this rare case of idiopathic intracranial hypertension in a young patient highlights the importance of early detection and specialized care. Our team worked carefully to ensure accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment, offering the best possible outcome for the patient.”