Effect of acetazolamide on ocular hemodynamics in pseudotumor cerebri associated with inflammatory bowel disease

Am J Ophthalmol. 2002 Nov;134(5):778-80. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(02)01650-1.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the hemodynamic effect of oral acetazolamide administration on ocular perfusion in a patient with pseudotumor cerebri associated with Crohn disease.

Design: Interventional case report.

Methods: A 20-year-old woman with a 5-year history of Crohn disease presented with a 2-week history of headache and blurred vision in both eyes. Ophthalmologic examination was normal. Fluorescein angiography showed a profound delay in retinal and choroidal perfusion. Lumbar puncture showed an opening pressure of 320 mm water. Therapy was initiated with oral acetazolamide 750 mg per day.

Results: A subjective improvement of symptoms was noted over 4 days. Repeat fluorescein angiography showed resolution of the ocular perfusion deficit. No recurrent symptoms were noted 19 months after cessation of therapy.

Conclusions: Crohn disease may present with pseudotumor cerebri and severe ocular perfusion deficits that are reversible with oral acetazolamide therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acetazolamide / therapeutic use*
  • Administration, Oral
  • Adult
  • Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Choroid / blood supply
  • Crohn Disease / complications*
  • Female
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Headache / etiology
  • Hemodynamics / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Pressure
  • Papilledema / etiology*
  • Papilledema / physiopathology
  • Pseudotumor Cerebri / etiology*
  • Pseudotumor Cerebri / physiopathology
  • Retinal Vessels / physiopathology*
  • Visual Acuity
  • Visual Fields

Substances

  • Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors
  • Acetazolamide