Systemic Effects of Hypothermia due to Hypothalamic Dysfunction after Resection of a Craniopharyngioma: Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Objective With this case report, we aim to improve recognition of the systemic effects of hypothermia due to hypothalamic dysfunctioning. We present a patient who developed temperature dysregulation after surgery for craniopharyngioma. He suffered from several episodes of hypothermia associated with a decreased level of consciousness, hypoventilation, bradycardia, pancreatitis, and pancytopenia. Rewarming resulted in complete recovery of all symptoms.

Data Sources We discuss the literature on the pathophysiological consequences of hypothermia, referring to several medical databases (Cochrane, SUMSearch, Trip database, and PubMed).

Conclusion Hypothermia due to hypothalamic dysfunction can result in several systemic complications with complete recovery of all symptoms by rewarming.

Keywords

bradycardia - hypothermia - hypoventilation - pancreatitis - pancytopenia

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