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Updated: Apr 21, 2026
06:44
Isolation of Brain-infiltrating Leukocytes
Published on: June 13, 2011
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Toxic leukoencephalopathy in the intensive care unit
A L Holyoak1, M J Trout1, R P White2
1Intensive Care Unit, Townsville Hospital, Douglas, Queensland.
Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
|October 25, 2014
Summary
Acute toxic leukoencephalopathy is an uncommon cause of coma after drug overdose. Early MRI diagnosis is crucial for potential recovery in affected patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Toxicology
- Radiology
Background:
- Acute toxic leukoencephalopathy (ATLE) is a rare neurological condition.
- It is characterized by acute onset neurological deficits and white matter changes on MRI.
- ATLE is often associated with specific toxin exposures, including certain drugs.
Observation:
- This article presents two cases of ATLE with a rapid, severe onset.
- Patients presented with undifferentiated coma following drug overdose.
- Unexplained neurological symptoms in patients with a history of drug exposure were observed.
Findings:
- The presented cases suggest ATLE can have a more fulminant course than previously described.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a vital role in diagnosing ATLE.
- Early MRI findings are important for predicting patient prognosis.
Implications:
- ATLE should be considered in comatose patients with a history of drug exposure.
- Prompt diagnosis via MRI may lead to better patient outcomes.
- Further research into ATLE subtypes and treatments is warranted.
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