Multi domain cognitive impairment in Children with Pseudotumor Cerebri Syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: Although prompt and suitable treatment of Pseudotumor Cerebri Syndrome (PTC) leads to an excellent prognosis and can prevent optic nerve atrophy, adults show long-lasting neurocognitive deficits even with prompt treatment. The purpose of our study was to evaluate cognitive outcomes in pediatric PTC patients.

Methods: Children diagnosed with PTC and a control group received a neurocognitive evaluation using the NeuroTrax computerized battery of tests.

Results: 82 children (49 females [60%], 6.5–16 years old, mean age 13.3) were evaluated, including 26 diagnosed with idiopathic PTC and 56 controls. The PTC group were tested at least two months after diagnosis and treatment onset. Global cognitive score, verbal memory, executive function, visual-spatial processing, attention, and information processing speed were all significantly lower in the research group. No differences were found between children currently being treated and those whose symptoms had resolved.

Conclusions: Children with PTC experience comprehensive cognitive decline that persists after resolution of the symptoms.