Paroxysmal autonomic instability with dystonia in a child: rare manifestation of an interpeduncular tuberculoma

Pediatr Neurosurg. 2011;47(4):275-8. doi: 10.1159/000334276. Epub 2012 Feb 22.

Abstract

The term 'paroxysmal autonomic instability with dystonia' was first given for a group of symptoms comprising diaphoresis, intermittent agitation, hypertension, hyperthermia, tachycardia, tachypnea, and extensor posturing. This usually occurs as a complication of severe brain injury and is infrequently reported in cases of cerebral infection. We report a 1-year-old child with intracranial tuberculoma with symptoms of paroxysmal autonomic instability with dystonia. Pertinent literature is reviewed emphasizing pathophysiology and available treatment options.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autonomic Nervous System Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Autonomic Nervous System Diseases / physiopathology
  • Cerebellar Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Cerebellar Diseases / physiopathology
  • Cerebellar Diseases / surgery
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Dystonia / diagnosis*
  • Dystonia / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Tuberculoma, Intracranial / diagnosis*
  • Tuberculoma, Intracranial / physiopathology
  • Tuberculosis, Meningeal / complications
  • Tuberculosis, Meningeal / diagnosis
  • Tuberculosis, Meningeal / physiopathology