[Unexplained neurological dysfunction in the recovery room]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Unexplained neurological dysfunction, previously termed conversion disorder, is an uncommon complication following general anesthesia.
• Distinguishing this from anesthesia-induced effects poses diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

• A 58-year-old male patient exhibited prolonged unresponsiveness post-uncomplicated general anesthesia despite stable vital signs.
• Initial response (eyelid flutter) occurred 2 hours post-operation, followed by several hours of immobility.
• Full recovery of motor functions and spontaneous movement took 12 hours.

Findings:

• The patient experienced unexplained neurological dysfunction post-general anesthesia.
• No underlying medical cause was identified for the neurological symptoms.

Implications:

• This case highlights that unexplained neurological dysfunction can manifest after general anesthesia.
• Diagnosis relies on neurological assessment, differentiating it from iatrogenic causes.
• A conservative management strategy involving observation is indicated due to the condition's self-limiting nature.