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Updated: May 17, 2026
03:37
Cerebral Ischemic Coma Model Induced by Modified Four-Vessel Occlusion
Published on: July 5, 2024
An unusual cause of coma
Sujith Ovallath1, R S Raj, Abdu Rahman
1Kannur Medical College, Kerala, Kannur 670612, India.
Case Reports in Medicine
|October 12, 2012
Summary
A rare case of uterine fibroid presenting as coma due to recurrent hypoglycemia was reported. Surgical removal of the fibroid resolved the hypoglycemic symptoms, confirming the fibroid as the cause.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are common benign tumors of the uterus.
- Unusual presentations of uterine fibroids can pose diagnostic challenges.
- Metabolic complications associated with uterine fibroids are rarely reported.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an unusual case of uterine fibroid presenting as coma.
- To investigate the potential mechanism of hypoglycemia secondary to uterine fibroid.
- To highlight the importance of considering rare etiologies in unexplained coma.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a patient with recurrent hypoglycemia and coma.
- Assessment of hormonal levels, including insulin-like growth factor.
- Surgical management (fibroid removal) and follow-up of symptoms.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with recurrent, severe hypoglycemia leading to coma.
- Hypoglycemia was attributed to insulin-like growth factor secreted by the uterine fibroid.
- Complete resolution of hypoglycemic episodes occurred after surgical removal of the fibroid.
- Histopathological examination confirmed a benign fibroid without malignancy.
Conclusions:
- Uterine fibroids can present with rare metabolic complications like hypoglycemia.
- Insulin-like growth factor secretion by fibroids is a potential mechanism for hypoglycemia.
- Surgical intervention is effective in resolving such complications.
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