Background: Increased intracranial pressure without a tumor or other disorders is a hallmark of the neurological condition known as idiopathic intracranial hypertension [IIH]. The major concern among patients with this condition is the hazardous effects on the optic nerve; so, prediction of optic nerve involvement is a priority for those individuals.
Aim of the work: To assess the predictive value of the optical coherence tomography [OCT] in the follow up of optic disc edema in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension, measuring the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer [RNFL] and optic disc, and therefore warrant more expedited evaluation and treatment.
Patients and methods: A prospective cohort study included 30 patients with IIH. Optical coherence tomography was completed at baseline and follow-up for six months.
Results: The mean RNFL thickness was 107.84 ± 21.65 µm with mean ganglion cell complex [GCC] thickness of 89.94 ± 9.33 µm and mean optic nerve head [ONH] thickness was 615 ± 189 µm. There is a significant decrease in intracranial pressure [ICP] associated with a decrease in RNFL thickness and ONH thickness.
Conclusion: OCT imaging can be done as non-invasive quantitative method instead of opening pressure in follow up of patients.