Related Experiment Videos
Acute hypervitaminosis A in a young lady
M R Khasru1, R Yasmin, A K Salek
1Department of Medicine (Unit-1), Shaheed Suhrawardi Medical College & Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh. drkhasru35mmc@yahoo.com
Mymensingh Medical Journal : MMJ
|April 17, 2010
Summary
Acute vitamin A toxicity can cause pseudotumor cerebri, typically in children. This case highlights an 18-year-old female experiencing these symptoms after intentionally ingesting a high dose of vitamin A.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Vitamin A toxicity is a known cause of increased intracranial pressure.
- Pseudotumor cerebri (idiopathic intracranial hypertension) is characterized by symptoms mimicking a brain tumor.
Observation:
- An 18-year-old female presented with headache, vomiting, back pain, and diplopia after intentionally ingesting approximately 10 million IU of vitamin A.
- Clinical examination revealed bilateral papilledema, symmetrical pupillary dilation, reduced visual acuity (6/60 OD, 6/18 OS), and bilateral sixth cranial nerve palsy.
Findings:
- Despite the severe presentation, brain and orbital MRI were normal.
- The patient's symptoms resolved following treatment with acetazolamide.
Implications:
- This case underscores that vitamin A toxicity can induce pseudotumor cerebri in young adults.
- Prompt diagnosis and management, including acetazolamide, are crucial for favorable outcomes in vitamin A-induced intracranial hypertension.
Related Concept Videos
Vitamins
Vitamins, derived from the Latin word for life, are essential organic substances required in small quantities for optimal growth and overall well-being. Unlike other organic nutrients, vitamins don't act as sources of energy or building materials but rather facilitate these nutrients' utilization by the body. Vitamins are predominantly coenzymes, assisting enzymes in specific chemical actions, like the oxidation of glucose for energy involving B vitamins. Most vitamins are not produced in our...
Chronic Kidney Disease II: Clinical Manifestations
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) progressively impairs multiple body systems due to the accumulation of uremic toxins, which disrupt cellular functions across various organs.Neurologic symptomsNeurologic symptoms often arise early in CKD, as uremic toxin buildup drives changes in cognitive and motor functions. Patients frequently experience fatigue, headache, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and, in severe cases, seizures. Peripheral neuropathy commonly manifests as burning sensations in the...
Acute Kidney Injury III: Clinical Manifestations
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) progresses through distinct clinical phases: the oliguric, diuretic, and recovery phases, each marked by unique manifestations and challenges.Oliguric Phase:The oliguric phase is the initial stage of AKI, typically lasting 10 to 14 days. This phase is marked by a significant reduction in urine output, usually less than 400 mL per day, indicating decreased kidney function. Fluid retention is a prominent feature, leading to symptoms such as edema, hypertension, and...
Acute Kidney Injury VI: Nursing Management
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) results in an inability to maintain fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance. Effective nursing management is critical in improving patient outcomes and includes comprehensive patient assessment and targeted interventions.Comprehensive Patient AssessmentA detailed history collection is essential, focusing on any recent infections, nephrotoxic medication use, or chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes that may contribute to AKI. During the physical...
Hypothyroidism II: Pathophysiology
Hypothyroidism is a disorder characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, energy balance, and multiple organ systems.TypesHypothyroidism is classified based on the level of dysfunction. Primary hypothyroidism results from intrinsic thyroid gland dysfunction, causing reduced hormone production despite normal or increased stimulation. Secondary hypothyroidism arises from inadequate thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secretion by the pituitary. Tertiary...
Chronic Kidney Disease IV: Nursing Management
Nursing management is essential for preventing complications, maintaining stability, and improving patients' quality of life in chronic kidney disease (CKD). By using a structured approach, nurses help slow CKD progression and support effective patient care.1. Comprehensive patient assessmentEffective management begins with nurses reviewing the patient’s medical history, and identifying key risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, and nephrotoxic drug use. Nurses assess signs of fluid...