Risk Management

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension/Pseudotumor cerebri checklist

OMIC has settled 8 claims alleging failure to diagnose and treat idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), also known as pseudotumor cerebri (PTC). These patients suffered significant vision loss. The claims show that ophthalmologists do not always recognize when the patient’s condition is an emergency and do not ensure timely follow up with other specialists.

OMIC Board Members Dr. Ronald Pelton and Dr. Robert Wiggins developed this Idiopathic intracranial hypertension checklist to use when evaluating patients with IIH. Checklists identify important aspects of the patient’s history, exam, and management that might be missed, particularly by practitioners who do not encounter these patients frequently in clinical practice. Place the completed checklist, or the information within it, in the medical record.

Patients with suspected IIH need prompt care. Use our sample forms to ensure timely follow up. The Referral Note for Patient explains who will make needed appointments and when care is needed, and Referral note to MD alerts other providers to your proposed diagnostic and management plan.