Hashimoto encephalopathy: A treatable cause of encephalopathy in children – further report of two cases

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Akuma, Akuma O. | Sharples, Peta M. | Jardine, Philip E.

Affiliations: Department of Pediatric Neurology, Bristol Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Bristol, UK

Note: [] Correspondence: Akuma O. Akuma, M.D., 18 Lily Way, Afon Fields, Rogerstone, Newport, South Wales. NP10 9LG, UK. Tel.: +44 1633 891 203; Fax: +44 1633 891 203; E-mail: akumaochibuzo@doctors.org.uk

Abstract: Two teenage girls with episodic neuropsychiatric symptoms, altered consciousness, collapse and seizures requiring intensive care admissions are presented. Both were euthyroid at presentation and had markedly elevated anti-thyroperoxidase antibody. Extensive neurometabolic tests and cranial imaging were normal. However, psychometric testing showed evidence of memory and cognitive difficulties. Both were diagnosed as Hashimoto encephalopathy and one improved after steroid treatment while the other was lost to follow-up after defaulting scheduled elective hospital admission for steroid therapy.

Keywords: Hashimoto encephalopathy, antithyroid antibodies, status epilepticus

Journal: Journal of Pediatric Neurology, vol. 6, no. 1, pp. 47-51, 2008