This medlegal case involved a patient who presented with severe headaches.  A lumbar puncture was performed, which resulted in abnormally high CSF pressure readings. Although some pressure was released during the lumbar puncture, the CSF pressure was not tested again and a fundus exam has not performed to check the CSF pressure’s effects on the optic nerve. There was also a failure to read the fluid pressure on the optic nerve and pituitary gland in a MRI study that followed. The result was permanent vision loss.


Lumbar Puncture

Fundus Exam - Normal vs. Papilledema

MRI Findings of Optive Nerve and Increased CSF Pressure

Empty Sella Pattern Indicating Duration of High CSF Pressures