Central pontine myelinolysis with entapment syndrome associated with hypovitaminosis

Abstract

Central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) is a non-inflammatory demyelinating disease characterized by destruction of the myelin sheaths level of the pons. The predisposing factors are chronic alcoholism, malnutrition states and rapid correction of disnatremia. Case report: female 54-year-old man who presented sudden quadriplegia and aphasia, initially managed as stroke. Subsequently she presented vertical nystagmus. MRI showed compatible data with central pontine myelinolysis. Hematic cytometry showed megaloblastic anemia. She received supportive therapy and physical rehabilitation, without clinical improvement. Conclusions: this case relates the CPM with hypovitaminosis, rare association in the development of a CPM. No serum levels of B-complex vitamins was done, that would have allowed us to define a more accurate diagnosis. So far, there is no effective treatment for CMP.