Osmotic Demyelination Syndrome: A Rare Clinical Image

The term Osmotic Demyelination Syndrome (ODS) is synonymous with central pontine myelinolysis (CPM), denoting a condition characterised by brain damage, particularly affecting the white matter tracts of the pontine region. This damage arises due to the rapid correction of metabolic imbalances, primarily cases of hyponatremia. Noteworthy triggers encompass severe burns, liver transplantations, anorexia nervosa, hyperemesis gravidarum, and hyperglycaemia, all linked to the development of CPM. Clinical manifestations encompass a spectrum of signs and symptoms, including dysphagia, dysarthria, spastic quadriparesis, pseudobulbar paralysis, ataxia, lethargy, tremors, disorientation, catatonia, and, in severe instances, locked-in syndrome and coma. A recent case involving a 45-year-old woman illustrates these complexities. Upon admission to the Medicine Intensive Care Unit, she presented with symptoms indicative of diminished responsiveness and bilateral weakness in the upper and lower limbs. Of significance, the patient had a pre-existing medical history of hyperthyroidism. Extensive diagnostic investigations were undertaken, revealing compelling evidence of profound hyponatremia through blood analyses. Furthermore, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed, unveiling conspicuous areas of abnormal hyperintensity located in the central pons, intriguingly accompanied by spared peripheral regions. These radiological findings align with the characteristic pattern associated with osmotic demyelination syndrome, illuminating the underlying pathology.

Automated summary

Osmotic Demyelination Syndrome (ODS) or central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) is a condition characterized by brain damage, primarily affecting the white matter tracts in the pontine region. It occurs as a result of rapid correction of metabolic imbalances, particularly hyponatremia. Clinical manifestations include a range of symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, speech difficulties, spastic quadriparesis, pseudobulbar paralysis, ataxia, lethargy, tremors, disorientation, and in severe cases, locked-in syndrome and coma.