Metabolic markers can provide clues to cerebral hypertension

A new study has found that patients with some form of elevated brain pressure may detect their condition

A new study published in the journal Neurology looked at the metabolism of people with idiopathic increased intracranial pressure (IIH

By testing various metabolic markers, including blood, spinal fluid and urine, the research team from the University of Birmingham found that the four groups of markers were different from the control group participants and showed that hypertension was involved in changes in metabolism, not just a neurological disorder

Olivia Grech, a PhD researcher at the Institute of Metabolism and Systems at the University of Birmingham and lead author of the paper, said:

"This is the first study to quantify metabolite concentrations in patients with IIH, thus identifying changes

"Identifying the cause and identifying potential biomarkers to guide diagnosis are the top priorities of iiH studies

While the cause of IIH is not fully understood, the paper builds on previous research by Professor Sinclair's research team at the University of Birmingham, which suggests that IIH also has the characteristics of metabolic disorders

Metabolic analysis showed that patients with IIH exhibit insulin resistance (which is a major feature of diabetes), as well as different functions of adipose tissue, which metabolically prepares

Alex Sinclair, professor of neurology at the University of Birmingham and senior author of the paper, said:

"The experience of patients with IIH is important and if not detected, there can be serious consequences, including blindness

University of Birmingham Emeritus professor and co-author Susan Moran said:

"It is also encouraging that the effects of weight loss interventions have a profound effect not only on symptoms, but also on potential metabolic cues