Published in:
Open Access
01-03-2010 | Clinical Images
Unexpected death from a colloid cyst
Authors:
Christian Hohenstein, Steffen Herdtle
Published in:
International Journal of Emergency Medicine
|
Issue 1/2010
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Abstract
Background
Colloid cysts are usually benign brain tumors, which rarely cause acute neurological deterioration with sudden death due to an acute increase of intracranial pressure. So far, the final pathophysiology and clinical signs of impending death are unclear in this context.
Aim
We present a case of an adolescent who presented with symptoms similar to gastroenteritis.
Results
He unexpectedly developed a generalized seizure, acute pulmonary edema and life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmia.
Conclusion
Subtle distinctions between symptoms due to intracranial hypertension, which typically cause headache and vomiting, and true gastroenteritis are discussed as well as the pathophysiology of neurogenic pulmonary edema and the origin of cerebral-triggered cardiac dysrhythmias.