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[Wernicke encephalopathy in childhood osteosarcoma]
R Kálmánchey1, E Magyarossi, K Majtényi
1Semmelweis Orvostudományi Egyetem, II. sz. Gyermekklinikája, Budapest.
Orvosi Hetilap
|September 27, 1992
Summary
Wernicke encephalopathy, a rare neurological disorder, can occur in children undergoing chemotherapy for osteosarcoma. Prompt treatment with parenteral thiamine is crucial for recovery and survival, as untreated cases can be fatal.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Neurology
- Nutritional Deficiencies
Background:
- Chemotherapy for osteosarcoma can present complex challenges in pediatric patients.
- Wernicke encephalopathy is a serious neurological condition often associated with thiamine deficiency.
Observation:
- Two pediatric osteosarcoma patients developed Wernicke encephalopathy symptoms, including vomiting, during chemotherapy.
- One patient experienced fatal toxic cardiomyopathy, with autopsy confirming Wernicke encephalopathy.
- The second patient presented with ocular signs, ataxia, and somnolence, indicative of encephalopathy.
Findings:
- Parenteral thiamine administration led to the recovery of the second patient from Wernicke encephalopathy.
- The study highlights the potential for Wernicke encephalopathy to manifest during cancer treatment in children.
- Autopsy findings in the deceased child confirmed Wernicke encephalopathy as the cause of death.
Implications:
- Early recognition and diagnosis of Wernicke encephalopathy in pediatric cancer patients are critical.
- Parenteral thiamine is a potentially life-saving treatment for this neurological complication.
- This emphasizes the importance of monitoring nutritional status and neurological signs during intensive pediatric cancer therapy.