Atkinson, JLD

Dr Brazis has written a review of the literature on the clinical manifestations of idiopathic intracranial hypertension, possible associated venous hypertension and intracranial dural venous sinus abnormalities, and a brief discussion of medical and surgical therapies. The preferred terminology for this condition is idiopathic intracranial hypertension, but pseudotumour cerebri is so engrained in the literature that it stubbornly remains (1). The manuscript covers the literature well, and the information reviewed serves as an excellent reference source for interested readers. Unfortunately, Dr Brazis has noted the conflicting expert opinions regarding success, failure and complications for each of the surgical procedures, and, as a result, his summary discussion is barren of any algorithm of management, or even recommendations in approaching these difficult patients.