Increased Intracranial Pressure

Increased intracranial pressure is associated with high morbidity and mortality, but prompt treatment can improve outcomes. Traumatic brain injury is the most common cause of increased intracranial pressure, and it results in many hospitalizations and emergency department visits every year. The optimal treatment of intracranial hypertension is not known, and further clinical studies are needed, particularly in children. However, there are many treatments available for increased intracranial pressure. This article reviews the pathophysiology of increased intracranial pressure, common clinical features of intracranial hypertension and cerebral herniation, and evidence for the treatment of increased intracranial pressure in children.