Inhibition of the glucocorticoid-activating enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 drives concurrent 11-oxygenated androgen excess

Aldo-keto reductase 1C3 (AKR1C3) is a key enzyme in the activation of both classic and 11-oxygenated androgens. In adipose tissue, AKR1C3 is co-expressed with 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD11B1), which catalyzes not only the local activation of glucocorticoids but also the inactivation of 11-oxygenated androgens, and thus has the potential to counteract AKR1C3. Using a combination of in vitro assays and in silico modeling we show that HSD11B1 attenuates the biosynthesis of the potent 11-oxygenated androgen, 11-ketotestosterone (11KT), by AKR1C3. Employing ex vivo incubations of human female adipose tissue samples we show that inhibition of HSD11B1 results in the increased peripheral biosynthesis of 11KT. Moreover, circulating 11KT increased 2-3 fold in individuals with type 2 diabetes after receiving the selective oral HSD11B1 inhibitor AZD4017 for 35 days, thus confirming that HSD11B1 inhibition results in systemic increases in 11KT concentrations. Our findings show that HSD11B1 protects against excess 11KT production by adipose tissue, a finding of particular significance when considering the evidence for adverse metabolic effects of androgens in women. Therefore, when targeting glucocorticoid activation by HSD11B1 inhibitor treatment in women, the consequently increased generation of 11KT may offset beneficial effects of decreased glucocorticoid activation.

A systematic review of optical coherence tomography findings in adults with mild traumatic brain injury

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is common with many patients suffering disabling long-term sequelae, with visual symptoms frequently reported. There are no objective biomarkers of mTBI that are routinely used in clinical practice. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been used in mTBI research, as it enables visualisation of the neuroretina, allowing measurement of the retinal nerve fibre layer and ganglion cell layer. This systematic review aims to appraise the available literature and assess whether there are significant changes within the retinal nerve fibre layer and ganglion cell layer in subjects after mTBI. A systematic review was carried out in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (Number: CRD42022360498). Four databases were searched for relevant literature published from inception until 1 September 2022. Abstracts and full texts were screened by three independent reviewers. Initial screening of databases yielded 341 publications, of these, three fulfilled all the criteria for inclusion. All three studies showed thinning of the retinal nerve fibre layer, whereas there were no significant changes in the ganglion cell layer. This systematic review demonstrated that thinning of the retinal nerve fibre layer (but not of the ganglion cell layer) is associated with mTBI. It provides preliminary evidence for the use of the retinal nerve fibre layer as a potential biomarker of damage to the visual system in mTBI. Further prospective longitudinal studies ensuring uniform diagnosis and accurate phenotyping of mTBI are needed to understand the effects on the visual system and potential of OCT as a prognostic biomarker.

Guidelines of the International Headache Society for controlled trials of pharmacological preventive treatment for persistent post-traumatic headache attributed to mild traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

Persistent headache attributed to traumatic injury to the head is divided into two subtypes, one attributed to moderate or severe traumatic injury and another attributed to mild traumatic injury (i.e., concussion). The latter is much more prevalent, in part because more than 90% of cases with traumatic brain injury are classified as mild. The pathophysiology of persistent post-traumatic headache is poorly understood and the underlying mechanisms are likely multifactorial. There is currently no approved treatment specifically for persistent post-traumatic headache, and management strategies rely on medications used for migraine or tension-type headache. Therefore, high-quality trials are urgently needed to support clinical decision-making and optimize management strategies. International guidelines can facilitate appropriate trial design and ensure the acquisition of high-quality data evaluating the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of available and novel pharmacological therapies for the preventive treatment of persistent post-traumatic headache.

METHODS

The development of this guideline was based on a literature review of available studies in MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, along with a review of previously published guidelines for controlled trials of preventive treatment for episodic and chronic migraine. The identified literature was critically appraised, and due to the scarcity of scientific evidence, recommendations were primarily based on the consensus of experts in the field.

OBJECTIVE

To provide guidelines for designing state-of-the-art controlled clinical trials aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of preventive treatments for persistent post-traumatic headache attributed to mild traumatic brain injury.

Identification of a human blood biomarker of pharmacological 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 inhibition

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-1 (11β-HSD1) catalyses the oxoreduction of cortisone to cortisol, amplifying levels of active glucocorticoids. It is a pharmaceutical target in metabolic disease and cognitive impairments. 11β-HSD1 also converts some 7oxo-steroids to their 7β-hydroxy forms. A recent study in mice described the ratio of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA)/tauro-7oxolithocholic acid (T7oxoLCA) as a biomarker for decreased 11β-HSD1 activity. The present study evaluates the equivalent bile acid ratio of glycoursodeoxycholic acid (GUDCA)/glyco-7oxolithocholic acid (G7oxoLCA) as a biomarker for pharmacological 11β-HSD1 inhibition in humans and compares it with the currently applied urinary (5α-tetrahydrocortisol + tetrahydrocortisol)/tetrahydrocortisone ((5αTHF + THF)/THE) ratio.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Bile acid profiles were analysed by ultra-HPLC tandem-MS in blood samples from two independent, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical studies of the orally administered selective 11β-HSD1 inhibitor AZD4017. The blood GUDCA/G7oxoLCA ratio was compared with the urinary tetrahydro-glucocorticoid ratio for ability to detect 11β-HSD1 inhibition.

KEY RESULTS

No significant alterations were observed in bile acid profiles following 11β-HSD1 inhibition by AZD4017, except for an increase of the secondary bile acid G7oxoLCA. The enzyme product/substrate ratio GUDCA/G7oxoLCA was found to be more reliable to detect 11β-HSD1 inhibition than the absolute G7oxoLCA concentration in both cohorts. Comparison of the blood GUDCA/G7oxoLCA ratio with the urinary (5αTHF + THF)/THE ratio revealed that both successfully detect 11β-HSD1 inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

11β-HSD1 inhibition does not cause major alterations in bile acid homeostasis. The GUDCA/G7oxoLCA ratio represents the first blood biomarker of pharmacological 11β-HSD1 inhibition and may replace or complement the urinary (5αTHF + THF)/THE ratio biomarker.

CSF hyperdynamics in rats mimicking the obesity and androgen excess characteristic of patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a syndrome exhibiting elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), visual disturbances, and severe headache. IIH primarily affects young obese women, though it can occur in individuals of any age, BMI, and sex. IIH is characterized by systemic metabolic dysregulation with a profile of increased androgen hormones. However, the contribution of obesity/hormonal perturbations to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics remains unresolved.

METHODS

We employed obese female Zucker rats and adjuvant testosterone to reveal IIH causal drivers. ICP and CSF dynamics were determined with in vivo experimentation and magnetic resonance imaging, testosterone levels assessed with mass spectrometry, and choroid plexus function revealed with transcriptomics.

RESULTS

Obese rats had undisturbed CSF testosterone levels and no changes in ICP or CSF dynamics. Adjuvant testosterone treatment of obese rats elevated the CSF secretion rate, although with no effect on the ICP, due to elevated CSF drainage capacity of these rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity in itself therefore does not suffice to recapitulate the IIH symptoms in rats, but modulation of CSF dynamics appears with adjuvant testosterone treatment, which mimics the androgen excess observed in female IIH patients. Obesity-induced androgen dysregulation may thus contribute to the disease mechanism of IIH and could potentially serve as a future therapeutic target.

Effect of glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonist exenatide, used as an intracranial pressure lowering agent, on cognition in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

BACKGROUND

Cognitive function can be affected in conditions with raised intracranial pressure (ICP) such as idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Drugs used off label to treat raised ICP also have cognitive side effects, underscoring the unmet need for effective therapeutics which reduce ICP without worsening cognition. The Glucagon Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, exenatide, has been shown to significantly reduce ICP in IIH, therefore this study aimed to determine the effects of exenatide on cognition in IIH.

METHODS

This was an exploratory study of the IIH:Pressure trial (ISTCRN 12678718). Women with IIH and telemetric ICP monitors (n = 15) were treated with exenatide (n = 7) or placebo (n = 8) for 12 weeks. Cognitive function was tested using the National Institute of Health Toolbox Cognitive Battery at baseline and 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Cognitive performance was impaired in fluid intelligence ((T-score of 50 = population mean), mean (SD) 37.20 (9.87)), attention (33.93 (7.15)) and executive function (38.07 (14.61)). After 12-weeks there was no evidence that exenatide compromised cognition (no differences between exenatide and placebo). Cognition improved in exenatide treated patients in fluid intelligence (baseline 38.4 (8.2), 12 weeks 52.9 (6.6), p = 0.0005), processing speed (baseline 43.7 (9.4), 12 weeks 58.4 (10.4), p = 0.0058) and episodic memory (baseline 49.4 (5.3), 12 weeks 62.1 (13.2), p = 0.0315).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with raised ICP due to IIH, exenatide, a drug emerging as an ICP lowering agent, does not adversely impact cognition. This is encouraging and has potential to be relevant when considering prescribing choices to lower ICP.

Longitudinal prospective cohort study evaluating prognosis in idiopathic intracranial hypertension patients with and without comorbid polycystic ovarian syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are hyperandrogenic metabolic disorders that affect women of reproductive age living with obesity. The previously reported prevalence of comorbid PCOS in IIH patients is highly variable and the longitudinal impact on visual and headache outcomes are unknown.

METHODS

In this prospective longitudinal cohort study patients were identified from the IIH: Life database over a nine-year period (2012-2021). Data collected included demographics and PCOS questionnaire data. Key visual and detailed headache outcomes were recorded. We analysed the key variables for influential outcomes of vision and headache. Logistical regression methods were used to model long term visual and headache outcomes.

RESULTS

Overall 398 women with IIH and documented PCOS questionnaires were followed up for a median of 10 months (range 0-87). Prevalence of PCOS in IIH was 20% (78/398) diagnosed by the Rotterdam criteria. Patients with IIH and comorbid PCOS reported higher self-reported fertility problems (3.2-fold increased risk) and increased need for medical help in becoming pregnant (4.4-fold increased risk). Comorbid PCOS in IIH patients does not adversely impact long-term vision or headache outcomes. The headache burden was high in both cohorts studied.

CONCLUSIONS

The study demonstrated that comorbid PCOS in IIH is common (20%). Diagnosing comorbid PCOS is important as it can impact on fertility and is known to have long-term adverse cardiovascular risks. Our data suggest that a diagnosis of PCOS in those with IIH does not significantly exacerbate long-term vision or headache prognosis.

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension: a step change in understanding the disease mechanisms

The understanding of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) has evolved over the past few years. Previously, IIH was considered a disease exclusively affecting the neuro-ophthalmic axis, characterized by raised intracranial pressure, headache and papilloedema, and resulting in the risk of severe and permanent visual loss and life-changing disabling headaches. Recent advances have begun to redefine IIH as a probable metabolic disease involving a range of systemic manifestations. More than 95% of individuals affected by the disease are women of reproductive age with obesity. The incidence is rapidly rising and parallels the escalating worldwide obesity rates. Contemporary insights identify associations with insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and a twofold increased risk of cardiovascular disease in excess of that driven by obesity alone. Adipose distribution in people with IIH, like that in other metabolic diseases, is preferentially centripetal and is associated with changes in intracranial pressure. Evidence now demonstrates adipose tissue dysfunction in people with IIH, involving transcriptional and metabolic priming for lipogenesis and weight gain. Hormonal perturbations are also observed, including a unique phenotype of androgen excess that promotes cerebrospinal fluid secretion. Knowledge of these additional disease features is driving research into novel therapeutic targets and altering the approach to multidisciplinary care.

The Impact of Valsalva Manoeuvres and Exercise on Intracranial Pressure and Cerebrovascular Dynamics in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a disease characterised by elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). The impact of straining and exercise on ICP regulation is poorly understood yet clinically relevant to IIH patient care. We sought to investigate the impact of Valsalva manoeuvres (VMs) and exercise on ICP and cerebrovascular haemodynamics in IIH. People with IIH were prospectively enrolled and had an intraparenchymal telemetric ICP sensor inserted. Three participants (age [mean ± standard deviation]: 40.3 ± 13.9 years) underwent continuous real-time ICP monitoring coupled with cerebrovascular haemodynamic assessments during VMs and moderate exercise. Participants had IIH with supine ICP measuring 15.3 ± 8.7 mmHg (20.8 ± 11.8 cm cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)) and sitting ICP measuring -4.2 ± 7.9 mmHg (-5.7 ± 10.7 cmCSF). During phase I of a VM ICP increased by 29.4 ± 13.5 mmHg (40.0 ± 18.4 cmCSF) but returned to baseline within 16 seconds from VM onset. The pattern of ICP changes during the VM phases was associated to that of changes in blood pressure, the middle cerebral artery blood velocity and prefrontal cortex haemodynamics. Exercise led to minimal effects on ICP. In conclusion, VM-induced changes in ICP were coupled to cerebrovascular haemodynamics and showed no sustained impact on ICP. Exercise did not lead to prolonged elevation of ICP. Those with IIH experiencing VMs (for example, during exercise and labour) may be reassured at the brief nature of the changes. Future research must look to corroborate the findings in a larger IIH cohort.

Determining the role of novel metabolic pathways in driving intracranial pressure reduction after weight loss

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension, a disease classically occurring in women with obesity, is characterized by raised intracranial pressure. Weight loss leads to the reduction in intracranial pressure. Additionally, pharmacological glucagon-like peptide-1 agonism reduces cerebrospinal fluid secretion and intracranial pressure. The potential mechanisms by which weight loss reduces intracranial pressure are unknown and were the focus of this study. Meal stimulation tests (fasted plasma sample, then samples at 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 min following a standardized meal) were conducted pre- and post-bariatric surgery [early (2 weeks) and late (12 months)] in patients with active idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Dynamic changes in gut neuropeptides (glucagon-like peptide-1, gastric inhibitory polypeptide and ghrelin) and metabolites (untargeted ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) were evaluated. We determined the relationship between gut neuropeptides, metabolites and intracranial pressure. Eighteen idiopathic intracranial hypertension patients were included [Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) n = 7, gastric banding n = 6 or sleeve gastrectomy n = 5]. At 2 weeks post-bariatric surgery, despite similar weight loss, RYGB had a 2-fold (50%) greater reduction in intracranial pressure compared to sleeve. Increased meal-stimulated glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion was observed after RYGB (+600%) compared to sleeve (+319%). There was no change in gastric inhibitory polypeptide and ghrelin. Dynamic changes in meal-stimulated metabolites after bariatric surgery consistently identified changes in lipid metabolites, predominantly ceramides, glycerophospholipids and lysoglycerophospholipids, which correlated with intracranial pressure. A greater number of differential lipid metabolites were observed in the RYGB cohort at 2 weeks, and these also correlated with intracranial pressure. In idiopathic intracranial hypertension, we identified novel changes in lipid metabolites and meal-stimulated glucagon-like peptide-1 levels following bariatric surgery which were associated with changes in intracranial pressure. RYGB was most effective at reducing intracranial pressure despite analogous weight loss to gastric sleeve at 2 weeks post-surgery and was associated with more pronounced changes in these metabolite pathways. We suggest that these novel perturbations in lipid metabolism and glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion are mechanistically important in driving a reduction in intracranial pressure following weight loss in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Therapeutic targeting of these pathways, for example with glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist infusion, could represent a therapeutic strategy.

Asymptomatic idiopathic intracranial hypertension: Prevalence and prognosis

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the presentation and prognosis of asymptomatic idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Papilloedema can be found incidentally on routine fundus examination, with many of these patients actually having symptoms on direct questioning. The aim was to evaluate visual and headache outcomes in people with IIH who present with or without symptoms.

METHODS

Prospective observational cohort study, between 2012 and 2021, 343 people with confirmed IIH diagnosis were enrolled in the IIH:Life database. Outcomes such as vision (LogMAR); Humphrey visual field perimetric mean deviation (PMD) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) and headache were evaluated using LOESS (locally weighted scatterplot smoothing) graphs and regression analysis.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-one people had incidentally found papilloedema, with 36 people with completely asymptomatic presentations. Those with asymptomatic IIH at diagnosis had similar visual prognosis compared to those with symptomatic disease. Sixty-six percent of the asymptomatic cohort became symptomatic during follow-up, and of these the predominant symptom was headache (96%). Headache frequency during follow-up was lower in the asymptomatic cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

The prognosis of those with IIH who present with or without symptoms is similar.

Experimental drugs for the treatment of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH): shedding light on phase I and II trials

INTRODUCTION

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a neurological condition characterized by a raised intracranial pressure and papilledema that causes debilitating headaches. While the extent of the pathophysiology is being discovered, the condition is emerging as a systemic metabolic disease distinct to people living with obesity alone. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is becoming more common and therefore establishing licensed therapeutics is a key priority.

AREA COVERED

The translation of preclinical work in idiopathic intracranial hypertension is evident by the two early phase trials evaluating 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibitor, AZD4017, and a glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonist, Exenatide. This review summarizes these two early phase trials evaluating targeted medicines for the treatment of intracranial pressure. The modulation of these two distinct mechanisms have potential for therapeutic intervention in people living with idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

EXPERT OPINION

The clinical trial landscape in idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a challenge due to the rarity of the disease and the lack of agreed meaningful trial outcomes. Further preclinical work to fully understand the pathogenesis is required to enable personalized targeted drug treatment.

Modelling idiopathic intracranial hypertension in rats: contributions of high fat diet and testosterone to intracranial pressure and cerebrospinal fluid production

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a condition characterized by increased intracranial pressure (ICP), impaired vision, and headache. Most cases of IIH occur in obese women of childbearing age, though age, BMI, and female sex do not encompass all aspects of IIH pathophysiology. Systemic metabolic dysregulation has been identified in IIH with a profile of androgen excess. However, the mechanistic coupling between obesity/hormonal perturbations and cerebrospinal fluid dynamics remains unresolved.

METHODS

Female Wistar rats were either fed a high fat diet (HFD) for 21 weeks or exposed to adjuvant testosterone treatment for 28 days to recapitulate IIH causal drivers. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood testosterone levels were determined with mass spectrometry, ICP and CSF dynamics with in vivo experimentation, and the choroid plexus function revealed with transcriptomics and ex vivo isotope-based flux assays.

RESULTS

HFD-fed rats presented with increased ICP (65%), which was accompanied by increased CSF outflow resistance (50%) without altered CSF secretion rate or choroid plexus gene expression. Chronic adjuvant testosterone treatment of lean rats caused elevated ICP (55%) and CSF secretion rate (85%), in association with increased activity of the choroid plexus Na⁺,K⁺,2Cl^- cotransporter, NKCC1.

CONCLUSIONS

HFD-induced ICP elevation in experimental rats occurred with decreased CSF drainage capacity. Adjuvant testosterone, mimicking the androgen excess observed in female IIH patients, elevated the CSF secretion rate and thus ICP. Obesity-induced androgen dysregulation may thus contribute to the disease mechanism of IIH.

Defining the Phenotype and Prognosis of People With Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension After Cerebrospinal Fluid Diversion Surgery

PURPOSE

To characterize the phenotype of patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) who received cerebrospinal (CSF) diversion surgery and to detail the trajectory of recovery.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort registry study.

METHODS

Patients with IIH with sight-threatening papilledema presenting to a single United Kingdom neuroscience center between 2019 and 2021 were included. Outcomes consisted of perimetric mean deviation (PMD) and optical coherence tomography measures of papilledema (retinal nerve fiber layer [RNFL]) and macular ganglion cell layer (GCL) in both eyes. Headache outcomes included monthly headache days (MHD). Logistic regression methods were used to model long-term outcomes.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients without previous surgical interventions were included (92% female, mean age 28.1 years [SD 8.4], body mass index 37.4 kg/m2 [SD 9.7], mean days of follow-up 330 [SD 209]). Measurements before surgery showed mean PMD -11.4 dB (SD 9.7), RNFL 364 µm (SD 128), Frisén grade papilledema 4.3 (SD 0.9). and MHD 23 (SD 10.6). At 1 month postoperatively, RNFL and PMD had improved by 38% and 4%, respectively. At 4 months postoperatively, papilledema had resolved. GCL declined by 13% over 12 months. MHD reduced by 75% 3 months postoperatively before returning to baseline levels by 12 months. Five patients (9.8%) required revision surgeries.

CONCLUSIONS

Detailed characteristics of patients with sight-threatening IIH who received CSF diversion surgery and their typical postoperative recovery are presented. These parameters should guide physicians as to when patients with IIH may require surgery and enable the early identification of outliers who fail to respond. Papilledema and PMD recovered but GCL atrophy continued for 12 months. The implication of this delayed atrophy is unknown.

The effect of GLP-1RA exenatide on idiopathic intracranial hypertension: a randomized clinical trial

Therapeutics to reduce intracranial pressure are an unmet need. Preclinical data have demonstrated a novel strategy to lower intracranial pressure using glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor signalling. Here, we translate these findings into patients by conducting a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial to assess the effect of exenatide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, on intracranial pressure in idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Telemetric intracranial pressure catheters enabled long-term intracranial pressure monitoring. The trial enrolled adult women with active idiopathic intracranial hypertension (intracranial pressure >25 cmCSF and papilloedema) who receive subcutaneous exenatide or placebo. The three primary outcome measures were intracranial pressure at 2.5 h, 24 h and 12 weeks and alpha set a priori at less than 0.1. Among the 16 women recruited, 15 completed the study (mean age 28 ± 9, body mass index 38.1 ± 6.2 kg/m2, intracranial pressure 30.6 ± 5.1 cmCSF). Exenatide significantly and meaningfully lowered intracranial pressure at 2.5 h -5.7 ± 2.9 cmCSF (P = 0.048); 24 h -6.4 ± 2.9 cmCSF (P = 0.030); and 12 weeks -5.6 ± 3.0 cmCSF (P = 0.058). No serious safety signals were noted. These data provide confidence to proceed to a phase 3 trial in idiopathic intracranial hypertension and highlight the potential to utilize GLP-1 receptor agonist in other conditions characterized by raised intracranial pressure.

Visual Field Pointwise Analysis of the Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Weight Trial (IIH:WT)

Purpose

This study was designed to determine if point analysis of the Humphrey visual field (HVF) is an effective outcome measure for people with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) compared with mean deviation (MD).

Methods

Using the IIH Weight Trial data, we performed a pointwise analysis of the numerical retinal sensitivity. We then defined a medically treated cohort as having MDs between -2 dB and -7 dB and calculated the number of points that would have the ability to change by 7 dB.

Results

The HVF 24-2 mean ± SD MD in the worse eye was -3.5 ± 1.1 dB (range, -2.0 to -6.4 dB). Total deviation demonstrated a preference for the peripheral and blind spot locations to be affected. Points between 0 dB and -10 dB demonstrated negligible ability to improve, compared with those between -10 dB and -25 dB. For the evaluation of the feasibility for a potential medical intervention trial, only 346 points were available for analysis between -10 dB and -25 dB bilaterally, compared with 4123 points in baseline sensitivities of 0 to -10 dB.

Conclusions

Patients with IIH have mildly affected baseline sensitivities in the visual field based on HVF analyzer findings, and the majority of points do not show substantial change over 24 months in the setting of a randomized clinical trial. Most patients with IIH who are eligible for a medical treatment trial generally have the mildest affected baseline sensitivities. In such patients, pointwise analysis offers no advantage over MD in detection of visual field change.

Current and emerging diagnostic and management approaches for idiopathic intracranial hypertension

INTRODUCTION

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is characterized by raised intracranial pressure that triggers disabling headaches and can cause permanent visual loss. There is an increased incidence and prevalence of the condition linked to location-specific obesity rates. There are no licensed treatments for the condition. The majority of approaches to managing the disease prioritize resolution of papilledema. However, evidence is emerging that idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a systemic metabolic disease.

AREAS COVERED

The aim of this review is to present the emerging pathophysiology evidence which is leading to novel targeted therapeutics. The diagnostic pathway is outlined. The current and potential management approaches for idiopathic intracranial hypertension are also discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a condition with metabolic dysregulation with systemic manifestations that are present over and above what can be expl.ained by obesity alone. While most of the current management of this condition focuses on the eyes, future management needs to address the disabling headaches and the systemic risks of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and major cardiovascular events.

Interpretation of telemetric intracranial pressure recordings in people with idiopathic intracranial hypertension after shunt implantation

BACKGROUND

The M.scio telesensor (Aesculap-Miethke, Germany) is a device integrated within a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt for non-invasive measurement of the intracranial pressure (ICP). The purpose of this study was to analyze the telemetric recordings with the M.scio system in shunted patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), in order to determine reference values and assist the interpretation of telemetric data.

METHODS

This was a cohort study of consecutive patients with fulminant IIH who underwent primary VP shunt insertion between July 2019 and June 2022. The first telemetric measurements after surgery in the sitting and supine positions were analyzed. Telemetric ICP values, wave morphology, and pulse amplitude were determined for functioning and malfunctioning shunts.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven out of 64 patients had available telemetric recordings. The mean ICP was - 3.8 mmHg (standard deviation (SD) = 5.9) in the sitting and 16.4 mmHg (SD = 6.3) in the supine position. The ICP curve demonstrated pulsatility in 49 (86%) patients. A pulsatile curve with mean ICP in the above ranges indicated a functioning shunt, whereas the lack of pulsatility was challenging to interpret. There was a significant positive correlation between ICP versus amplitude, ICP versus body mass index (BMI), and amplitude versus BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

This clinical study defined ICP values and curves in IIH patients with a shunt. The results will assist the interpretation of telemetric ICP recordings in clinical decision making. More research is required to model longitudinal recordings and explore the link between telemetric measurements with clinical outcomes.

Enhancing diabetes care for the most vulnerable in the 21st century: Interim findings of the National Advisory Panel on Care Home Diabetes (NAPCHD)

Older adults with diabetes may carry a substantial health burden in Western ageing societies, occupy more than one in four beds in care homes, and are a highly vulnerable group who often require complex nursing and medical care. The global pandemic (COVID-19) had its epicentre in care homes and revealed many shortfalls in diabetes care resulting in hospital admissions and considerable mortality and comorbid illness. The purpose of this work was to develop a national Strategic Document of Diabetes Care for Care Homes which would bring about worthwhile, sustainable and effective quality diabetes care improvements, and address the shortfalls in care provided. A large diverse and multidisciplinary group of stakeholders (NAPCHD) defined 11 areas of interest where recommendations were needed and using a subgroup allocation approach were set tasks to produce a set of primary recommendations. Each subgroup was given 5 starter questions to begin their work and a format to provide responses. During the initial phase, 16 key findings were identified. Overall, after a period of 18 months, 49 primary recommendations were made, and 7 major conclusions were drawn from these. A model of community and integrated diabetes care for care home residents with diabetes was proposed, and a series of 5 'quick-wins' were created to begin implementation of some of the recommendations that would not require significant funding. The work of the NAPCHD is ongoing but we hope that this current resource will help leaders to make these required changes happen.

The idiopathic intracranial hypertension prospective cohort study: evaluation of prognostic factors and outcomes

BACKGROUND

There are limited longitudinal data evaluating outcomes in idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). We aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes in a real-world cohort of patients with IIH and sought to establish the prognostic factors.

METHODS

A longitudinal prospective cohort study was conducted over 9 years (2012-2021). Data included demographics and disease status. All consenting patients with IIH were recruited. Visual outcomes included visual acuity, Humphrey visual field and optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging measurements. Headache frequency, severity, and impact were noted. We analysed the key variables impacting visual and headache outcomes.

RESULTS

The cohort contained 490 patients with a confirmed IIH diagnosis. 98% were female with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 38 kg/m². Those with the highest OCT retinal nerve fibre layer had the worst visual outcomes. We noted a delayed decline, in the visual field and OCT ganglion cell layer after 12 months. In the medically managed cohort (n = 426), we found that disease duration and change in BMI had the greatest influence on visual outcomes. There was a high burden of headache, with a daily headache at presentation and prior migraine history influencing long-term headache prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a delayed decline in visual outcomes in those with the most severe papilloedema. Disease duration and change in BMI were the key visual prognostic factors, therefore those with the more acute disease may require closer monitoring. Improving prognosis in IIH should focus on the potentially modifiable factor of weight management.

Depression and anxiety in women with idiopathic intracranial hypertension compared to migraine: A matched controlled cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate mental health burden in women with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) compared to matched women with migraine and population controls.

BACKGROUND

Depression and anxiety are recognized comorbid conditions in those with IIH and lead to worse predicted medical outcomes. The mental health burden in IIH has not been previously evaluated in a large, matched cohort study.

METHODS

We performed a population-based matched, retrospective cohort study to explore mental health outcomes (depression and anxiety). We used data from IQVIA Medical Research Data, an anonymized, nationally representative primary care electronic medical records database in the United Kingdom, from January 1, 1995, to September 25, 2019. Women aged ≥16 years were eligible for inclusion. Women with IIH (exposure) were matched by age and body mass index with up to 10 control women without IIH but with migraine (migraine controls), and without IIH or migraine (population controls).

RESULTS

A total of 3411 women with IIH, 30,879 migraine controls and 33,495 population controls were included. Of these, 237, 2372 and 1695 women with IIH, migraine controls and population controls, respectively, developed depression during follow-up, and 179, 1826 and 1197, respectively, developed anxiety. There was a greater hazard of depression and anxiety in IIH compared to population controls (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20-1.58; and aHR 1.40, 95% CI 1.19-1.64, respectively), while hazards were similar to migraine controls (aHR 0.98, 95% CI 0.86-1.13; and aHR 0.98, 95% CI 0.83-1.14, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Depression and anxiety burden in women with IIH is higher than in the general population, and comparable to that in matched women with migraine. This may indicate that presence of headache is a potential driver for comorbid depression and anxiety in IIH.

Co-morbid Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

The link between polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) has long been debated. Historically, there is a wide range of reported occurrence of both conditions, being between 15% and 64%. Both conditions share a common phenotype. The awareness that in a new large data study that there is a 1.5-fold increased prevalence of diagnosed PCOS in participants with IIH as compared to the controls is important. Assessment for the potential of co-morbid PCOS in women with IIH is important as this may enable optimisation of weight and fertility management.

Dysregulation of Amino Acid, Lipid, and Acylpyruvate Metabolism in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: A Non-targeted Case Control and Longitudinal Metabolomic Study

Background: Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is characterized by increased intracranial pressure occurring predominantly in women with obesity. The pathogenesis is not understood. We have applied untargeted metabolomic analysis using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to characterize the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum in IIH compared to control subjects. Methods and findings: Samples were collected from IIH patients (n = 66) with active disease at baseline and again at 12 months following therapeutic weight loss. Control samples were collected from gender- and weight-matched healthy controls (n = 20). We identified annotated metabolites in CSF, formylpyruvate and maleylpyruvate/fumarylpyruvate, which were present at lower concentrations in IIH compared to control subjects and returned to values observed in controls following weight loss. These metabolites showed the opposite trend in serum at baseline. Multiple amino acid metabolic pathways and lipid classes were perturbed in serum and CSF in IIH alone. Serum lipid metabolite pathways were significantly increased in IIH. Conclusions: We observed a number of differential metabolic pathways related to amino acid, lipid, and acylpyruvate metabolism, in IIH compared to controls. These pathways were associated with clinical measures and normalized with disease remission. Perturbation of these metabolic pathways provides initial understanding of disease dysregulation in IIH.

Different Characteristics of Pre-Pubertal and Post-Pubertal Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: A Narrative Review

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) affects both children and adults. There are currently no clinical trials in IIH for those who are adolescents or children. The aims of this narrative review were to characterise the differences between pre- and post-pubertal IIH and to highlight the need to be more inclusive in clinical trial planning and recruitment. A detailed search of the scientific literature was performed using the PubMed database, from inception until 30 May 2022 using keywords. This included English language papers only. The abstracts and full texts were reviewed by two independent assessors. The literature revealed that the pre-pubertal group had a more variable presentation. The presenting features in the post-pubertal paediatric group were more akin to adults with headache as the dominant feature. They were also more likely to be female and have an increased body mass index. A clear limitation of the literature was that a number of paediatric studies had variable inclusion criteria, including secondary causes of raised intracranial pressure. Pre-pubertal children do not display the same predilection towards the female sex and obesity as post-pubertal children, who have a similar phenotype to the adult cohort. Inclusion of adolescents in clinical trials should be considered given the similar phenotype to adults. There is a lack of consistency in the definition of puberty, making the IIH literature difficult to compare. Inclusion of secondary causes of raised intracranial pressure has the potential to confound the accuracy of analysis and interpretation of the results.

Multiple lumbar punctures aiming to relieve headache results in iatrogenic spinal hematoma: a case report

BACKGROUND

Multiple lumbar punctures have historically been a strategy to relieve headaches associated with idiopathic intracranial hypertension despite limited clinical evidence of long-term efficacy. Lumbar puncture is typically a straightforward procedure with minimal complications reported, however, serious complications can occur. Lumbar-puncture-related spinal hematomas are rare but can lead to irreversible paralysis.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of a 28-year-old Caucasian woman who was treated with multiple lumbar punctures to manage headache, thought to be attributed to idiopathic intracranial hypertension. The patient developed a lumbosacral epidural hematoma following a lumbar puncture, which led to incomplete cauda equina syndrome. Multiple lumbar punctures had been the long-term management for the patient's chronic headaches associated with her diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension. She had no risks of an underlying coagulopathy. Following a lumbar puncture, she re-presented with lower back pain and bilateral paresthesia. Over the subsequent 48 hours, this progressed to urinary incontinence and saddle paresthesia. Imaging revealed an epidural hematoma, which was conservatively managed. She continued to report saddle paresthesia and urinary incontinence 7 months following the lumbar puncture. Between 1974 to 2022, our literature search found 41 case reports detailing lumbar-puncture-related spinal hematomas. It is an established but rare complication of lumbar puncture and there are limited studies looking at the incidence of its occurrence. Whilst coagulopathy has been found to be a risk factor, it is unclear if the gauge of the needle is relevant. Case evidence suggests there may be no significant difference in outcomes between surgical and conservative management of spinal hematomas. This case highlights that lumbar punctures can be invasive, with potentially serious complications. A lumbar puncture should therefore only be performed when clinically justified.

CONCLUSIONS

This case highlights a rare complication of lumbar puncture and emphasizes the importance of a risk-benefit discussion for each procedure. Spinal hematoma following lumbar puncture is a rare complication but with potentially devastating consequences. Within the setting of idiopathic intracranial hypertension, the evidence base for the long-term benefit of headache relief by repeat lumbar puncture is low.

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension: Evaluation of births and fertility through the Hospital Episode Statistics dataset

OBJECTIVE

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) predominantly affects women of reproductive age with obesity, and these women have a distinct profile of hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has an established adverse fertility phenotype that typically affects obese women. As IIH may impact reproductive health, we sought to evaluate fertility, gestational complications and pregnancy outcome in IIH.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study from English Hospital Episode Statistics dataset.

SETTING

English hospitals, UK.

POPULATION

Women aged 18-45 years seen in English hospitals between 1 April 2002 and 31 March 2019. Patients were required to have an IIH diagnosis and were compared with those with PCOS and general population female controls.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Pregnancies resulting in live births, complications of gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia, and method of delivery.

RESULTS

Data was collected from 17 587 IIH, 199633 PCOS and 10 947 012 women in the general population. The live birth rate, adjusted for age, was significantly lower among women with IIH (54.1%) than PCOS (67.9%), p < 0.0001 and the general population (57.7%), p < 0.0001. Pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes risks were higher following a diagnosis of IIH (5.3-fold and 2.7-fold, respectively, p < 0.0001) compared with the general population controls. Following a diagnosis of IIH, elective caesarean section rates were more than twice that of general population (odds ratio [OR] 2.4) and prior to a diagnosis of IIH (OR 2.2).

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate there are lower age-adjusted total pregnancy rates, increased risk of pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes, and a doubling of elective caesarean section rates in those with a diagnosis of IIH.

The Birmingham Standardized Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Shunt Protocol: Technical Note

BACKGROUND

Insertion of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunts in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is challenging mainly due to the small ventricles and phenotypical body habitus. In this report the authors present their surgical protocol for insertion of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) in patients with IIH and the associated revision rates.

METHODS

The protocol comprises the following: shunt surgery by neurosurgeons with expertise in CSF disorders; a frontal VPS usually right sided but left sided if the left ventricle is bigger; use of the proGAV 2.0 valve with gravitational unit, set at 10 and the M.scio telemetric sensor; cannulation of the ventricle with StealthStation EM navigation system; and laparoscopic insertion of the peritoneal catheter. The authors describe the protocol and rationale and evidence behind each component and present the results of a prospective analysis on revision rates.

RESULTS

The protocol has been implemented since 1 July, 2019, and by 28 February, 2022, sixty-two patients with IIH had undergone primary VPS insertion. The 30-day revision rate was 6.5%, and overall 11.3% of patients underwent revision during the study period, which compares favorably with the literature. The etiology for early failures was related to the surgical technique.

CONCLUSIONS

The components of the Birmingham standardized IIH shunt protocol are evidence based and address the technical challenges of CSF diversion in patients with IIH. This protocol is associated with a low revision rate, and the authors recommend standardization for CSF shunting in IIH.

Evaluation of diurnal and postural intracranial pressure employing telemetric monitoring in idiopathic intracranial hypertension

OBJECTIVES

Intracranial pressure (ICP) has been thought to vary diurnally. This study evaluates diurnal ICP measurements and quantifies changes in ICP occurring with changes in body posture in active idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH).

METHODS

This prospective observational study utilized telemetric ICP monitoring in people with active IIH. Participants had the Raumedic p-Tel ICP intraparenchymal device (Raumedic, Hembrechts, Germany) surgically inserted. Changes in ICP in the supine position were evaluated. Then, the ICP was measured in the standing, sitting, supine, left lateral decubitus positions and with coughing and bending. Ultimately, changes in ICP over the course of 24 h were recorded. ISRCTN registration number 12678718.

RESULTS

15 women were included, mean (standard deviation) age 29.5 (9.5) years, body mass index 38.1 (6.2) kg/m², and baseline mean ICP of 21.2 (4.8) mmHg (equivalent to 28.8 (6.5) cmCSF). Mean ICP rose with the duration in the supine position 1.2 (3.3) mmHg over 5-minutes (p = 0.175), 3.5 (2.8) mmHg over 30-minutes (p = 0.0002) and by a further 2.1 (2.2) mmHg over 3 h (p = 0.042). Mean ICP decreased by 51% when moving from the supine position to standing (21.2 (4.8) mmHg to 10.3 (3.7) mmHg respectively, p = 0.0001). Mean ICP increased by 13% moving from supine to the left lateral decubitus position (21.2 (4.8) mmHg to 24.0 (3.8) mmHg, p = 0.028). There was no significant difference in ICP measurements at any point during the daytime, or between 5-minute standing or supine recordings and prolonged ambulatory daytime and end of night supine recordings respectively. ICP, following an initial drop, increased progressively in conjunction with lying supine position from 23:00 h to 07:00 h by 34% (5.2 (1.9) mmHg, p = 0.026).

CONCLUSION

This analysis demonstrated that ICP does not appear to have a diurnal variation in IIH, but varies by position and duration in the supine position. ICP rose at night whilst the patient was continuously supine. Furthermore, brief standing and supine ICP measures in the day predicted daytime prolonged ambulatory measures and end of night peak ICP respectively. This knowledge gives reassurance that ICP can be accurately measured and compared at any time of day in an ambulant IIH patient. These are useful findings to inform clinical measurements and in the interpretation of ICP analyses in IIH.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISTCRN (12678718).

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Metabolomics in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension to Identify Markers of Disease and Headache

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the metabolomic profile in the CSF, serum, and urine of participants with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) compared with that in controls and measured changes in metabolism associated with clinical markers of disease activity and treatment.

METHODS

A case-control study compared women aged 18-55 years with active IIH (Friedman diagnostic criteria) with a sex-matched, age-matched, and body mass index-matched control group. IIH participants were identified from neurology and ophthalmology clinics from National Health Service hospitals and underwent a prospective intervention to induce disease remission through weight loss with reevaluation at 12 months. Clinical assessments included lumbar puncture, headache, papilledema, and visual measurements. Spectra of the CSF, serum, and urine metabolites were acquired using proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

RESULTS

Urea was lower in IIH participants (CSF, controls median ± IQR 0.196 ± 0.008, IIH 0.058 ± 0.059, p < 0.001; urine, controls 5971.370 ± 3021.831, IIH 4691.363 ± 1955.774, p = 0.009), correlated with ICP (urine p = 0.019) and headache severity (CSF p = 0.031), and increased by 12 months (CSF 12 months; 0.175 ± 0.043, p = 0.004, urine; 5210.874 ± 1825.302, p = 0.043). The lactate:pyruvate ratio was increased in IIH participants compared with that in controls (CSF, controls 49.739 ± 19.523, IIH 113.114 ± 117.298, p = 0.023; serum, controls 38.187 ± 13.392, IIH 54.547 ± 18.471, p = 0.004) and decreased at 12 months (CSF, 113.114 ± 117.298, p < 0.001). Baseline acetate was higher in IIH participants (CSF, controls 0.128 ± 0.041, IIH 0.192 ± 0.151, p = 0.008), correlated with headache severity (p = 0.030) and headache disability (p = 0.003), and was reduced at 12 months (0.160 ± 0.060, p = 0.007). Ketones, 3-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate, were altered in the CSF at baseline in IIH participants (3-hydroxybutyrate, controls 0.074 ± 0.063, IIH 0.049 ± 0.055, p = 0.019; acetoacetate, controls 0.013 ± 0.007, IIH 0.017 ± 0.010, p = 0.013) and normalized at 12 months (0.112 ± 0.114, p = 0.019, 0.029 ± 0.017, p = 0.015, respectively).

DISCUSSION

We observed metabolic disturbances that are evident in the CSF, serum, and urine of IIH participants, suggesting global metabolic dysregulation. Altered ketone body metabolites normalized after therapeutic weight loss. CSF:serum urea ratio was altered, which may influence ICP dynamics and headache. Elevated CSF acetate, known to stimulate trigeminal sensitization, was associated with headache morbidity. These alterations of metabolic pathways specific to IIH provide biological insight and warrant mechanistic evaluation.

TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02124486 (submitted April 22, 2014) and NCT02017444 (submitted December 16, 2013).

The UK CSF Disorders Day 2022

The annual United Kingdom cerebrospinal fluid disorders meeting made its return to the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, following the break in proceedings due to the coronavirus pandemic. Cerebrospinal fluid disorders require a multi-disciplinary approach with inputs from the neurological, neuro-ophthalmological, neuroradiological, and neurosurgical specialities. The annual meeting presented the newest concepts underpinning idiopathic intracranial hypertension pathophysiology and the advances in intracranial pressure monitoring and treatment.

Increased systemic and adipose 11β-HSD1 activity in idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Context

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a disease of raised intracranial pressure (ICP) of unknown etiology. Reductions in glucocorticoid metabolism are associated with improvements in IIH disease activity. The basal IIH glucocorticoid metabolism is yet to be assessed.

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine the basal glucocorticoid phenotype in IIH and assess the effects of weight loss on the IIH glucocorticoid phenotype.

Design

A retrospective case-control study and a separate exploratory analysis of a prospective randomized intervention study were carried out.

Methods

The case-control study compared female IIH patients to BMI, age, and sex-matched controls. In the randomized intervention study, different IIH patients were randomized to either a community weight management intervention or bariatric surgery, with patients assessed at baseline and 12 months. Glucocorticoid levels were determined utilizing 24-h urinary steroid profiles alongside the measurement of adipose tissue 11β-HSD1 activity.

Results

Compared to control subjects, patients with active IIH had increased systemic 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD1) and 5α-reductase activity. The intervention study demonstrated that weight loss following bariatric surgery reduced systemic 11β-HSD1 and 5α-reductase activity. Reductions in these were associated with reduced ICP. Subcutaneous adipose tissue explants demonstrated elevated 11β-HSD1 activity compared to samples from matched controls.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that in IIH, there is a phenotype of elevated systemic and adipose 11β-HSD1 activity in excess to that mediated by obesity. Bariatric surgery to induce weight loss was associated with reductions in 11β-HSD1 activity and decreased ICP. These data reflect new insights into the IIH phenotype and further point toward metabolic dysregulation as a feature of IIH.

European Headache Federation guideline on the use of monoclonal antibodies targeting the calcitonin gene related peptide pathway for migraine prevention - 2022 update

Background

A previous European Headache Federation (EHF) guideline addressed the use of monoclonal antibodies targeting the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) pathway to prevent migraine. Since then, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and real-world evidence have expanded the evidence and knowledge for those treatments. Therefore, the EHF panel decided to provide an updated guideline on the use of those treatments.

Methods

The guideline was developed following the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. The working group identified relevant questions, performed a systematic review and an analysis of the literature, assessed the quality of the available evidence, and wrote recommendations. Where the GRADE approach was not applicable, expert opinion was provided.

Results

We found moderate to high quality of evidence to recommend eptinezumab, erenumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab in individuals with episodic and chronic migraine. For several important clinical questions, we found not enough evidence to provide evidence-based recommendations and guidance relied on experts’ opinion. Nevertheless, we provided updated suggestions regarding the long-term management of those treatments and their place with respect to the other migraine preventatives.

Conclusion

Monoclonal antibodies targeting the CGRP pathway are recommended for migraine prevention as they are effective and safe also in the long-term.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s10194-022-01431-x.

Managing idiopathic intracranial hypertension in pregnancy: practical advice

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is more common in women of reproductive age who have obesity, yet there is little information on its management specifically in pregnancy. Women with IIH should plan their pregnancy including discussing contraception before pregnancy, recognising that hormonal contraceptives are not contraindicated. Potentially teratogenic medications including acetazolamide and topiramate are not recommended during pregnancy or in those with immediate plans to conceive; prescribing acetazolamide in pregnancy must only follow discussion with the patient and their obstetrician. Ideally, patients should aim to achieve disease remission or control before pregnancy, through optimising their weight. Although weight gain is expected in pregnancy, excessive weight gain may exacerbate IIH and increase maternal and fetal complications; evidence-based recommendations for non-IIH pregnancies may help in guiding optimal gestational weight gain. The vast majority of women with IIH can have a normal vaginal delivery, with spinal or epidural anaesthesia if needed, provided the papilloedema is stable or the IIH is in remission.

Metabolic phenotypes explain the relationship between dysglycaemia and frailty in older people with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Dysglycaemia (hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia) increase the risk of frailty in older people with diabetes, which appears contradictory. However, the characteristics of patients included in these studies are different and may reflect different metabolic phenotypes of frailty that may explain this apparent contradiction.

AIMS

To review the characteristics of frail patients included in clinical studies that reported an association between dysglycaemia and frailty in order to explore whether there is any metabolic differences in the profile of these patients.

METHODS

A systematic review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations. Key words around older people, type 2 diabetes mellitus, frailty, hyperglycaemia and low glycaemia were used in the literature search.

RESULTS

Only 8 studies met the inclusion criteria. Four studies investigated the risk of frailty associated with low glycaemia. Two studies showed that hypoglycaemia increased the risk of frailty by 44% (HR 1.60, 95% CI 1.14 to 2.42) and predicted greater level of dependency (p < 0.001), respectively. The other two studies reported that HbA1c inversely correlated with clinical frailty scale (r = -0.31, p < 0.01) and HbA1c < 6.0% was associated with increased risk of disability (3.45, 1.02 to 11.6), respectively. Compared with non-frail patients, those with frailty tended to have lower body weight or body mass index (BMI), have features of malnutrition such as low serum albumin or low total cholesterol and suffer from more comorbidities including dementia. Four studies explored the association of high glycaemia with frailty. Higher HbA1c predicted frailty (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.045 to 1.97) and positively correlated with Edmonton frail score (r = 0.44, p < 0.001), respectively in two studies. The other two studies found that subjects with HbA1c ≥ 6.5% had the greatest prevalence of frailty (70.3%) and subjects with higher HbA1c at baseline to have a higher frailty level throughout later life, respectively. Compared with non-frail patients, those with frailty tended to have higher body weight, waist circumference and BMI. They also have less physical activity, higher cholesterol level and have more comorbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

Dysglycaemia increases the risk of frailty but the characteristics of patients in these studies suggest different metabolic phenotypes of frailty. Therefore, these metabolic differences in frailty should be taken into consideration in the management of older people with diabetes.

Low glycaemic state increases risk of frailty and functional decline in older people with type 2 diabetes mellitus - Evidence from a systematic review

AIMS

To explore risk of frailty and functional decline associated with low glycaemia in older people with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Systematic review.

RESULTS

11 studies included. Six studies investigated risk of frailty or physical decline with hypoglycaemia. Hypoglycaemia increased risk of incident frailty (HR 1.60, 95% CI 1.14 to 2.42) in one study and risk of fractures in four studies (2.24, 1.56 to 3.21, 1.24, 1.13 to 1.37, 1.94, 1.67 to 2.24 and 1.71, 1.35 to 2.16 respectively). In sixth study, hypoglycaemia associated with dependency (P < 0.001). Five studies explored association of low blood glucose/HbA1c with frailty. One study showed that mean blood glucose decreased with increasing frailty (p = 0.003). Two studies reported that HbA1c inversely correlated with clinical frailty scale (r = -0.31, p < 0.01) and HbA1c < 6.9% increased risk of frailty (HR, 1.41 95% CI 1.12 to 1.78) respectively. Last two studies showed that HbA1c < 6.5% associated with risk of any fracture (HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.11) and HbA1c < 6.0% associated with increased risk of care need (3.45, 1.02 to 11.6) respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Low glycaemia increases risk of frailty and functional decline in older people with type 2 diabetes. Management should minimise incidence of low glycaemia in these patients.

Cognitive performance in idiopathic intracranial hypertension and relevance of intracranial pressure

Cognitive impairments have been reported in idiopathic intracranial hypertension; however, evidence supporting these deficits is scarce and contributing factors have not been defined. Using a case-control prospective study, we identified multiple domains of deficiency in a cohort of 66 female adult idiopathic intracranial hypertension patients. We identified significantly impaired attention networks (executive function) and sustained attention compared to a body mass index and age matched control group of 25 healthy female participants. We aimed to investigate how cognitive function changed over time and demonstrated that deficits were not permanent. Participants exhibited improvement in several domains including executive function, sustained attention and verbal short-term memory over 12-month follow-up. Improved cognition over time was associated with reduction in intracranial pressure but not body weight. We then evaluated cognition before and after a lumbar puncture with acute reduction in intracranial pressure and noted significant improvement in sustained attention to response task performance. The impact of comorbidities (headache, depression, adiposity and obstructive sleep apnoea) was also explored. We observed that body mass index and the obesity associated cytokine interleukin-6 (serum and cerebrospinal fluid) were not associated with cognitive performance. Headache severity during cognitive testing, co-morbid depression and markers of obstructive sleep apnoea were adversely associated with cognitive performance. Dysregulation of the cortisol generating enzyme 11β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 has been observed in idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Elevated cortisol has been associated with impaired cognition. Here, we utilized liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for multi-steroid profiling in serum and cerebrospinal fluid in idiopathic intracranial hypertension patients. We noted that reduction in the serum cortisol:cortisone ratio in those undergoing bariatric surgery at 12 months was associated with improving verbal working memory. The clinical relevance of cognitive deficits was noted in their significant association with impaired reliability to perform visual field tests, the cornerstone of monitoring vision in idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Our findings propose that cognitive impairment should be accepted as a clinical manifestation of idiopathic intracranial hypertension and impairs the ability to perform visual field testing reliably. Importantly, cognitive deficits can improve over time and with reduction of intracranial pressure. Treating comorbid depression, obstructive sleep apnoea and headache could improve cognitive performance in idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

Cerebrospinal fluid shunting protocol for idiopathic intracranial hypertension for an improved revision rate

OBJECTIVE

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunting in idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is associated with high complication rates, primarily because of the technical challenges that are related to small ventricles and a large body habitus. In this study, the authors report the benefits of a standardized protocol for CSF shunting in patients with IIH as relates to shunt revisions.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of consecutive patients with IIH who had undergone primary insertion of a CSF shunt between January 2014 and December 2020 at the authors' hospital. In July 2019, they implemented a surgical protocol for shunting in IIH. This protocol recommended IIH shunt insertion by neurosurgeons with expertise in CSF disorders, a frontal ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt with an adjustable gravitational valve and integrated intracranial pressure monitoring device, frameless stereotactic insertion of the ventricular catheter, and laparoscopic insertion of the peritoneal catheter. Thirty-day revision rates before and after implementation of the protocol were compared in order to assess the impact of standardizing shunting for IIH on shunt complications.

RESULTS

The 81 patients included in the study were predominantly female (93%), with a mean age of 31 years at primary surgery and mean body mass index (BMI) of 37 kg/m2. Forty-five patients underwent primary surgery prior to implementation of the protocol and 36 patients after. Overall, 12 (15%) of 81 patients needed CSF shunt revision in the first 30 days, 10 before and 2 after introduction of the protocol. This represented a significant reduction in the early revision rate from 22% to 6% after the protocol (p = 0.036). The most common cause of shunt revision for the whole cohort was migration or misplacement of the peritoneal catheter, occurring in 6 of the 12 patients. Patients with a higher BMI were significantly more likely to have a shunt revision within 30 days (p = 0.022).

CONCLUSIONS

The Birmingham standardized IIH shunt protocol resulted in a significant reduction in revisions within 30 days of primary shunt surgery in patients with IIH. The authors recommend standardization for shunting in IIH as a method for improving surgical outcomes. They support the notion of subspecialization for IIH shunts, the use of a frontal VP shunt with sophisticated technology, and laparoscopic insertion of the peritoneal end.

Intracranial pressure directly predicts headache morbidity in idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Objective

Headache is the predominant disabler in idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). The aim was to characterise headache and investigate the association with intracranial pressure.

Methods

IIH:WT was a randomised controlled parallel group multicentre trial in the United Kingdom investigating weight management methods in IIH. Participants with active IIH (evidenced by papilloedema) and a body mass index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m² were recruited. At baseline, 12 months and 24 months headache characteristics and quality of life outcome measures were collected and lumbar puncture measurements were performed.

Results

Sixty-six women with active IIH were included with a mean age of 32.0 years (SD ± 7.8), and mean body mass index of 43.9 ± 7.0 kg/m². The headache phenotype was migraine-like in 90%. Headache severity correlated with ICP at baseline (r = 0.285; p = 0.024); change in headache severity and monthly headache days correlated with change in ICP at 12 months (r = 0.454, p = 0.001 and r = 0.419, p = 0.002 respectively). Cutaneous allodynia was significantly correlated with ICP at 12 months. (r = 0.479, p < 0.001). Boot strap analysis noted a positive association between ICP at 12 and 24 months and enabled prediction of both change in headache severity and monthly headache days. ICP was associated with significant improvements in quality of life (SF-36).

Conclusions

We demonstrate a positive relationship between ICP and headache and cutaneous allodynia, which has not been previously reported in IIH. Those with the greatest reduction in ICP over 12 months had the greatest reduction in headache frequency and severity; this was associated with improvement of quality of life measures.

Trial registration

This work provides Class IIa evidence of the association of raised intracranial pressure and headache. ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02124486.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s10194-021-01321-8.

Obstructive sleep apnoea in women with idiopathic intracranial hypertension: a sub-study of the idiopathic intracranial hypertension weight randomised controlled trial (IIH: WT)

Objective

Obesity is a risk factor for idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). We aimed to determine the prevalence of OSA in IIH and evaluate the diagnostic performance of OSA screening tools in IIH. Additionally, we evaluated the relationship between weight loss, OSA and IIH over 12 months.

Methods

A sub-study of a multi-centre, randomised controlled parallel group trial comparing the impact of bariatric surgery vs. community weight management intervention (CWI) on IIH-related outcomes over 12 months (IIH:WT). OSA was assessed using home-based polygraphy (ApneaLink Air, ResMed) at baseline and 12 months. OSA was defined as an apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI) ≥ 15 or ≥ 5 with excessive daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale ≥11 ).

Results

Of the 66 women in the IIH: WT trial, 46 were included in the OSA sub-study. OSA prevalence was 47% (n = 19). The STOP-BANG had the highest sensitivity (84%) compared to the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (69%) and Berlin (68%) to detect OSA. Bariatric surgery resulted in greater reductions in AHI vs. CWI (median [95%CI] AHI reduction of  – 2.8 [ – 11.9, 0.7], p = 0.017). Over 12 months there was a positive association between changes in papilloedema and AHI (r = 0.543, p = 0.045), despite adjustment for changes in the body mass index (R² = 0.522, p = 0.017).

Conclusion

OSA is common in IIH and the STOP-BANG questionnaire was the most sensitive screening tool. Bariatric surgery improved OSA in patients with IIH. The improvement in AHI was associated with improvement in papilloedema independent of weight loss. Whether OSA treatment has beneficial impact on papilloedema warrants further evaluation.

Trial registration number

IIH: WT is registered as ISRCTN40152829 and on ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT02124486 (28/04/2014).

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00415-021-10700-9.

Diagnosis and management of migraine in ten steps

Migraine is a disabling primary headache disorder that directly affects more than one billion people worldwide. Despite its widespread prevalence, migraine remains under-diagnosed and under-treated. To support clinical decision-making, we convened a European panel of experts to develop a ten-step approach to the diagnosis and management of migraine. Each step was established by expert consensus and supported by a review of current literature, and the Consensus Statement is endorsed by the European Headache Federation and the European Academy of Neurology. In this Consensus Statement, we introduce typical clinical features, diagnostic criteria and differential diagnoses of migraine. We then emphasize the value of patient centricity and patient education to ensure treatment adherence and satisfaction with care provision. Further, we outline best practices for acute and preventive treatment of migraine in various patient populations, including adults, children and adolescents, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and older people. In addition, we provide recommendations for evaluating treatment response and managing treatment failure. Lastly, we discuss the management of complications and comorbidities as well as the importance of planning long-term follow-up.

Cost-effectiveness of bariatric surgery versus community weight management to treat obesity-related idiopathic intracranial hypertension: evidence from a single-payer healthcare system

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is associated with significant morbidity, predominantly affecting women of childbearing age living with obesity. Weight loss has demonstrated successful disease-modifying effects; however, the long-term cost-effectiveness of weight loss interventions for the treatment of IIH has not yet been established.

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the cost-effectiveness of weight-loss treatments for IIH.

SETTING

Single-payer healthcare system (National Health Service, England).

METHODS

A Markov model was developed comparing bariatric surgery with a community weight management intervention over 5-, 10-, and 20-year time horizons. Transition probabilities, utilities, and resource use were informed by the IIH Weight Trial (IIH:WT), alongside the published literature. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis was conducted to characterize uncertainty within the model.

RESULTS

In the base case analysis, over a 20-year time horizon, bariatric surgery was "dominant," led to cost savings of £49,500, and generated an additional 1.16 quality-adjusted life years in comparison to the community weight management intervention. The probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated a probability of 98% that bariatric surgery is the dominant option in terms of cost-effectiveness.

CONCLUSION

This economic modeling study has shown that when compared to community weight management, bariatric surgery is a highly cost-effective treatment option for IIH in women living with obesity. The model shows that surgery leads to long-term cost savings and health benefits, but that these do not occur until after 5 years post surgery, and then gradually increase over time.

Post-traumatic headache attributed to traumatic brain injury: classification, clinical characteristics, and treatment

Post-traumatic headache is a common sequela of traumatic brain injury and is classified as a secondary headache disorder. In the past 10 years, considerable progress has been made to better understand the clinical features of this disorder, generating momentum to identify effective therapies. Post-traumatic headache is increasingly being recognised as a heterogeneous headache disorder, with patients often classified into subphenotypes that might be more responsive to specific therapies. Such considerations are not accounted for in three iterations of diagnostic criteria published by the International Headache Society. The scarcity of evidence-based approaches has left clinicians to choose therapies on the basis of the primary headache phenotype (eg, migraine and tension-type headache) and that are most compatible with the clinical picture. A concerted effort is needed to address these shortcomings and should include large prospective cohort studies as well as randomised controlled trials. This approach, in turn, will result in better disease characterisation and availability of evidence-based treatment options.