The Pathogenesis of Visual Field Loss in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

Every time a patient with a confirmed diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), is evaluated, a management decision has to be made as to whether medical or surgical intervention is required. Although the indications for treatment have undergone some modification over the last 10 years (Corbett et al, 1982; 1988), the detection Of optiC nerve-related visual field loss remains the most widely accepted parameter guiding treatment. This presumes an alert patient who is capable of performing reliable visual field testing and a responsible patient who is going to keep followup visits. Although other tests of visual function may help to substantiate the presence of damage, it is the visual field that is most relied upon in managing patients with IIH.