Orthostatic headache and bilateral abducens palsy secondary to spontaneous intracranial hypotension

• DOI: 10.1007/s10194-010-0262-8
• Publication Date: 2010-09-29T09:20:59Z
• Authors: Jesús Porta-Etessam; Daniela Di Capua; Manuela Jorquera; Maria-L. Cuadrado; Azahara Marcos
• Keywords: Adult; Male; Brief Report; Rest; Posture; Clinical Neurology; Headache; Intracranial Hypotension; Functional Laterality; 3. Good health; 03 medical and health sciences; Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine; Treatment Outcome; 0302 clinical medicine; Humans; Abducens Nerve Diseases

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is a well-documented syndrome characterized typically by a benign, self-limited course. Patients typically present with postural or exertional headaches that can be temporarily relieved by lying in a supine or recumbent position. A 35-year-old Caucasian male suffered orthostatic headache that developed to a bilateral abducens palsy. We ordered relative rest and the patient improved and completely recovered after 3 months. Although SIH is considered as a benign and self limited process it could also be associated with disabling complications. We should be aware of the possible complications and inform our patients. SIH can present with headache and bilateral abducens palsy even when the headache is improving.