Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2021 | Cerebral Sinus Venous Thrombosis | Case report
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension presenting as iron deficiency anemia: a case report
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2021
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Background
The presentation of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) in association with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is rare.
Case presentation
This case report depicts the unusual case of a 31-year-old woman of mixed Jamaican and English heritage with IIH who presented initially as IDA in the context of menorrhagia. Subsequent ophthalmic review, lumbar puncture, cerebrospinal fluid analysis and neuroimaging studies revealed severe bilateral optic disc swelling and raised intracranial pressure in keeping with IIH. Prompt treatment of IDA with blood transfusion and orally administered iron supplements, in addition to medical treatment for IIH, contributed to significant improvement of symptoms and prevented long-term visual deficits.
Conclusion
The possibility of IDA, albeit rare, should always be considered and investigated appropriately in all patients with IIH, as the treatment of the anemia alone may be sight-saving.