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Husband's Research Uncovers Rare CSF Leak After Doctor Dismissal
18 Jan
Summary
- Mom of four was repeatedly misdiagnosed with migraines for months.
- Husband discovered rare CSF leak after extensive personal research.
- Specialists confirmed spontaneous intracranial hypotension, likely CSF leak.
A New Jersey mother of four, Liz Vassallo, experienced debilitating symptoms for months, beginning in October 2025, which doctors repeatedly dismissed as migraines. Her condition worsened, leaving her bedridden. Despite seeing 20 specialists and trying various treatments, no relief was found.
Her husband, Chris Vassallo, refused to accept the dismissive diagnoses and began extensive research. In November 2025, he discovered information on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks, a condition that matched Liz's symptoms including severe headaches, facial pain, and light sensitivity.
On December 2, 2025, a neurosurgeon diagnosed Liz with spontaneous intracranial hypotension, likely due to a CSF leak. She underwent a painful epidural blood patch procedure, and while still recovering, she is showing significant improvement and has regained hope.
