Quiz Form

Question Date: 15/10/2023

Question: Which statement is not true regarding headache in spontaneous intracranial hypotension?

Options:

• Orthostatic headache relieved by lying down is essential for diagnosis
• Hypoacusis, tinnitus and vertigo are common
• Headache may mimic exercise headache
• Thunderclap headache has been reported

Correct Answer: Orthostatic headache relieved by lying down is essential for diagnosis

Explaination: In spontaneous intracranial hypotension, the classical postural headache in upright position, relieved by lying down is not seen in 24% of cases. Also, complications like subdural hemorrhage and venous sinus thrombosis will cause change in headache pattern. Hypoacusis (25%), and tinnitus (18%) are common as are nausea (42%) and photophobia (16%). Headache can be triggered by Valsalva and exertion mimicking exercise headache. Thunderclap headache has also been reported.

Reference: Wang S. Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension. Continuum 2021 27(3 Headache) 746-766