Unveiling the Veiled: Enteroviral Meningitis Mimicking Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

Cureus. 2024 Jul 5;16(7):e63884. doi: 10.7759/cureus.63884. eCollection 2024 Jul.

Abstract

Meningitis is a significant health concern globally, with enterovirus (EV) being the most common cause of viral meningitis in adults. We discuss the case of a 57-year-old female patient with enteroviral meningitis manifesting as pseudotumor cerebri, posing significant clinical challenges. She presented with symptoms, signs, and radiological evidence suggesting idiopathic intracranial hypertension. The CSF analysis showed pleocytosis, which led to further investigations that unveiled a positive case of EV by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis. This case highlights the fact that not all cases of raised intracranial pressure are detrimental or recalcitrant. It accentuates the need for thorough diagnostic evaluation and emphasizes the potential for favorable outcomes with conservative management.

Keywords: atypical presentation; central nervous system infections (cns); enteroviral meningitis; intracranial pressure; pseudotumor.

Publication types

  • Case Reports