A Case of Central Pontine Myelinolysis – Nursing Perspective

Abstract

Central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) is a rare neurological disorder that is often caused by rapid correction of hyponatremia. This paper presents a case of a 42-year-old male with tuberculous meningitis (TBM), ventriculomegaly, anti-tuberculosis therapy (ATT)-induced hepatitis and features of CPM. The patient exhibited altered mental status, dysphagia, dysarthria and quadriparesis, and his magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings are consistent with subacute CPM with extrapontine myelinolysis. Nursing management focuses on correcting hyponatremia slowly, monitoring serum sodium levels, providing nutritional support and rehabilitation. The case highlights the importance of early detection of CPM, intense nursing care and how comprehensive care can reduce the complications and improve outcomes, despite the historically high mortality rate of the condition.