Risk Factors for Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

Demographic and Modifiable Risk Factors

• The primary risk factors for IIH are female sex, obesity (BMI >30 kg/m²), and recent weight gain of 5-15%, with these three factors defining the typical IIH patient profile 1, 2, 3
• Obesity (BMI >30 kg/m²) is present in the vast majority of typical IIH cases 1, 2, 3
• Recent weight gain of 5-15% in the year preceding diagnosis is a critical precipitating factor 2
• Weight gain is the most important modifiable risk factor, with 5-15% weight gain preceding diagnosis 2

Hormonal and Endocrine Factors

• Pregnancy or hormonal changes may contribute to disease onset or recurrence 4
• The reproductive age window in women suggests hormonal influence on disease pathophysiology 3

Important Clinical Caveats

• Weight regain after initial loss is a major risk factor for disease recurrence throughout life 4