papilledema
Swelling of the Optic Nerve from Brain Pressure
Plain-language definition
Swelling of the optic nerve head - usually in both eyes - caused by raised pressure inside the brain. A key sign of idiopathic intracranial hypertension and other dangerous causes of raised intracranial pressure.
Read our full article on Papilledema.
Where this term comes up
“The distinction matters because true papilledema requires an urgent workup for raised intracranial pressure, while most causes of pseudopapilledema are benign and stable.”
Finding · Pseudopapilledema
“They can make the optic disc appear elevated, mimicking papilledema, but they're usually a benign finding.”
Condition · Optic Disc Drusen
“It is most often discussed in IIH with dangerous papilledema, where the eye problem is urgent even if the broader pressure problem still needs management.”
Treatment · Optic Nerve Sheath Fenestration
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Pathology terms describe diseases, tissue changes, exam findings, or complications that can affect vision or eye comfort.
Related glossary terms
A note on medical context
A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.