The fluid found in the brain and spinal cord is called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Papilledema is a swelling of the optic disc that occurs when increased intracranial pressure (ICP) causes CSF to accumulate in the part where the optic nerve enters the eye. This accumulation and the pressure exerted on the optic nerve and the central retinal vein prevent blood and fluid from draining normally from the eye. The primary causes of increased intracranial pressure leading to papilledema include:
* Head traumas
* Hydrocephalus (excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain)
* Intracranial hemorrhage (bleeding within the brain)
* Central nervous system infections or inflammations (such as meningitis, encephalitis)
* Brain tumors or masses