Manganese encephalopathy: an under-recognized condition in the intensive care unit

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Julio A Chalela1, Leo Bonillha, Ron Neyens

  • 1Neurosciences Department, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas St, Charleston, SC 29425, USA. chalela@musc.edu

Neurocritical Care
|December 22, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Manganese encephalopathy, a complication of parenteral nutrition, is often missed. Early recognition of its diverse clinical and imaging signs is crucial to prevent prolonged manganese exposure and unnecessary tests.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Toxicology
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Manganese encephalopathy is a neurological disorder.
  • It can arise as a complication of parenteral nutrition.
  • Delayed diagnosis leads to further manganese exposure and extensive medical workups.

Observation:

  • A case report details a patient with manganese encephalopathy.
  • The patient's diagnosis was delayed due to unrecognized characteristic imaging findings.
  • This highlights the challenge in identifying the condition.

Findings:

  • Manganese encephalopathy presents with varied clinical symptoms.
  • Characteristic neuroimaging findings are often overlooked.
  • The protean nature of the findings contributes to diagnostic delays.

Implications:

  • Emphasizes the need for increased awareness among clinicians.
  • Highlights the importance of recognizing specific imaging patterns.
  • Suggests that prompt diagnosis can mitigate patient harm and reduce healthcare costs.

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