Background:
In the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, health systems are struggling to
prioritize care for affected patients, however, physicians globally are also attempting to maintain care for other lessthreatening medical conditions that may lead to permanent disabilities if untreated. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
(IIH) is a relatively common condition affecting young females that could lead to permanent blindness if not properly
treated. In this article, we provide some insight and recommendations regarding the management of IIH during the
pandemic.
Methods:
The diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment methods of IIH during the COVID-19 pandemic period are reviewed.
COVID-19 as a mimic of IIH is also discussed.
Results:
Diagnosis and follow-up of papilledema due to IIH during the COVID-19 pandemic can be facilitated by
nonmydriatic fundus photography and optical coherence tomography. COVID-19 may mimic IIH by presenting as
cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, papillophlebitis, or meningoencephalitis, so a high index of suspicious is required in
these cases. When surgical treatment is indicated, optic nerve sheath fenestration may be the primary procedure of choice
during the pandemic period.
Conclusion:
IIH is a serious vision threatening condition that could lead to permanent blindness and disability at a
relatively young age if left untreated. It could be the first presentation of a COVID-19 infection. Certain precautions
during the diagnosis and management of this condition could be taken that may allow appropriate care to be delivered to
these patients while minimizing the risk of coronavirus infection.
