Distinguishing Papilledema from Pseudopapilledema

In this 1-Minute Video, Dr. Kimberly Gokoffski explains how to distinguish papilledema from pseudopapilledema during a clinical exam. Signs of true papilledema include arterial hyperemia that obscures the optic disc margin as well as vessels through the optic nerve. In addition, tortuous and dilated veins are often noted. Splinter hemorrhages may be signs of active swelling and elevated intracranial pressure. Severe swelling can lead to folds around the optic disc and choroidal folds, which radiate horizontally from the optic nerve head. The swollen disc may have refractile bodies as well as gliosis, which give an elevated appearance.

View other 1-Minute Videos by Dr. Gokoffski:
Decoding Transient Visual Obscurations

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