Idiopathic intracranial hypertension induced by topical application of Vitamin A

Abstract

A 21-year-old nonobese woman developed headaches and papilledema while excessively using 3 topical preparations of Vitamin A. Neuroimaging studies were unremarkable and opening pressure on lumbar puncture was 300 mm H2O with normal cerebrospinal fluid composition. After discontinuation of the topical Vitamin A preparations, the symptoms and signs of increased intracranial pressure resolved. The association of intracranial hypertension and topical Vitamin A application has only been reported once previously.