Abstract
Introduction: Central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) and extrapontine myelinolysis (EPM) are grouped within the context of osmotic demyelination syndromes which are characterized by the dissolution of the myelin sheaths, preserving the axons. The objective of this case report is to describe the case report of a patient with CPM and review the medical literature. Details of case report: This is a 57-year-old female patient who developed CPM after rapid correction of hyponatremia secondary to persistent vomiting. It evolves with pseudobulbar syndrome, tetraparesis, dysarthria, lowering of consciousness level and dysphagia. After five months of hospitalization for symptomatic treatment and complications inherent to his clinical condition, he evolved with partial improvement of motor symptoms. Discussion: The etiology of CPM and EPM is multifactorial, with unknown incidence and equal prevalence in both sexes, and can be found at all ages, with high morbidity and mortality rates. Although its main triggering factor is the overly rapid correction of severe hyponatremia, some patients may develop it with higher serum sodium concentrations and lower correction rates. The diagnosis is essentially clinical, but magnetic resonance imaging is the complementary exam of choice for confirmation. Patients may present from complete recovery to irreversible neurological sequelae, and there is no specific treatment.