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[Paroxysmal bilateral ballism induced by hypoglycemia]
Shusuke Takahashi1, Shingo Ohkawa
1The Section of Aging Brain and Cognitive Disorders, Hyogo Brain and Heart Center at Himeji.
Rinsho Shinkeigaku = Clinical Neurology
|June 14, 2006
Summary
Bilateral ballism, a rare movement disorder, can be caused by severe hypoglycemia. Managing blood glucose levels effectively resolved the involuntary limb movements in a diabetic patient.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Movement Disorders
Context:
- Bilateral ballism is an extremely rare involuntary movement disorder.
- It typically results from diffuse lesions affecting both sides of the basal ganglia.
- Hypoglycemia is a known risk factor for basal ganglia dysfunction.
Purpose:
- To present a rare case of bilateral ballism triggered by hypoglycemia.
- To investigate the link between severe hypoglycemia and basal ganglia dysfunction.
- To highlight the importance of glucose control in managing such movement disorders.
Summary:
- A 75-year-old man with diabetes experienced recurrent episodes of bilateral ballism.
- These episodes coincided with documented severe hypoglycemia (25 mg/dl).
- Brain imaging and EEG ruled out other neurological causes.
- Insulin dosage adjustment and improved glucose control led to the resolution of symptoms.
Impact:
- This case underscores the potential of hypoglycemia to induce severe neurological symptoms like bilateral ballism.
- It emphasizes the basal ganglia's vulnerability to metabolic disturbances.
- Effective management of underlying conditions, such as diabetes, is crucial for preventing recurrent episodes.