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[Bilateral shoulder fractures following generalized seizure]
1H:S Bispebjerg Hospital, neurologisk afdeling N.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|April 15, 2000
Summary
Alcohol withdrawal can cause severe shoulder injuries like fractures and dislocations following seizures. Early diagnosis is crucial, as these injuries are often missed initially, requiring imaging for confirmation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Trauma
- Neurology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Tonic-clonic seizures can precipitate significant musculoskeletal trauma.
- Alcohol withdrawal is a common but often overlooked cause of seizures.
Observation:
- A 37-year-old male presented with bilateral shoulder fractures and posterior dislocation after a tonic-clonic seizure.
- The seizure was attributed to alcohol withdrawal.
Findings:
- Initial diagnosis was delayed, highlighting potential pitfalls in recognizing seizure-induced shoulder injuries.
- Radiographic imaging, including X-ray and CT scan, was essential for diagnosis.
Implications:
- Increased awareness of seizure-related shoulder trauma is needed in clinical practice.
- Understanding alcohol withdrawal mechanisms is key to preventing such injuries.
- Early recognition and imaging can prevent delayed diagnosis of these orthopedic emergencies.