Insulinoma presenting as refractory seizure disorder

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Disorders

Background:

• Hypoglycaemia presents with diverse acute and chronic neurological complications.
• Delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypoglycaemia can result in irreversible neurological deficits or death.
• Insulinoma-induced hypoglycaemia is a treatable cause of neurological dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the importance of considering insulinoma in the differential diagnosis of intractable seizures.
• To highlight the need for reassessing atypical and medication-refractory seizures.
• To underscore the potential for permanent neurological damage from prolonged hypoglycaemia.

Main Methods:

• Case report analysis.
• Review of clinical presentation and diagnostic workup for hypoglycaemia.
• Literature review on hypoglycaemia and neurological manifestations.

Main Results:

• Hypoglycaemia can mimic or precipitate various neurological conditions, including epilepsy.
• Insulinoma, a treatable cause, should be suspected in refractory seizures.
• Prompt management of hypoglycaemia is essential for neurological recovery.

Conclusions:

• Atypical and refractory seizures warrant thorough investigation for underlying metabolic causes like hypoglycaemia.
• Early detection and management of insulinoma-related hypoglycaemia can prevent severe neurological sequelae.
• This case underscores the critical link between metabolic balance and neurological health.