Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease Mimicking Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease is a multisystem autoimmune disorder characterized by an inflammatory response targeting melanocyte-associated antigens in tissues such as the uveal tract, inner ear, meninges, and the skin. The classic presentation is bilateral pan-uveitis (choroiditis and multifocal serous retinal detachment) in association with extra-ocular features such signs of meningeal irritation (headache,...

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Audiologists and otologists should consider VKH disease in patients presenting with audiovestibular symptoms alongside eye inflammation or skin/hair changes, as misdiagnosis can delay sight- and hearing-preserving immunotherapy.

Raising awareness that VKH disease can mimic common neurological diagnoses is critical for preventing irreversible hearing and vision loss through timely immunosuppressive treatment.

1. 01VKH disease, a rare autoimmune disorder targeting pigment (melanocyte) cells, can present with hearing and balance symptoms.
2. 02This case mimicked idiopathic intracranial hypertension (raised brain pressure without a known cause), risking misdiagnosis.
3. 03Delayed diagnosis of VKH can lead to permanent hearing loss, vision loss, or both.
4. 04Audiovestibular manifestations are a recognized but often overlooked feature of VKH disease.
5. 05Case highlights the need for multidisciplinary evaluation when audiovestibular symptoms co-occur with eye or skin findings.

PMID

42131163

DOI

10.1080/01658107.2025.2507403.

Journal

Acta Oto-Laryngologica

Publication type

case_report

Evidence level

4

Sample size

1

Population

Individual patient with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease presenting with audiovestibular symptoms mimicking idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Intervention

Clinical evaluation and diagnosis of VKH disease with audiovestibular manifestations