PAROXYSMAL SYMPATHETIC HYPERACTIVITY AS A CAUSE OF PROLONGED ICU STAY- CASE REPORT

Abstract

Paroxysmal Sympathetic Hyperactivity (PSH) is commonly described in patients after Traumatic Brain Injury but it can present after an ischemic stroke following a complicated surgery. Usual clinical presentation are tachycardia, tachypnea, hypertension, sweating with seizures and dystonic posturing less likely initial signs. High grade fever and profuse sweating may allude sepsis or epilepsy leading to extraneous administration of anti-epileptics and antibiotics. Suspicion of pheochromocytoma arises in such situations which is ruled out by CECT. Clonidine (α-2 blocker), propranolol (β-blocker) and Baclofen (GABAb agonist) are agents used in treatment. Benzodiazapenes like lorazepam are important part of treatment as discontinuing them can exacerbate PSH attacks. MRI brain with MR angiography usually reveals hyper-intensities on T2/FLAIR in subcortical areas (thalami, cerebellum, crus cerebri) and restricted diffusion with low ADC values. Recurrent PSH episodes can occur due to delay in diagnosing and treatment leading to contractures and difficulty weaning the patient off the ventilator with tracheostomy tube placed. This case presents a scenario in which the delay in diagnosing PSH led to extensive investigations , delay in specific treatment and a prolonged ICU stay of the patient. Mainstay of rehabilitation remains aggressive physiotherapy to improve contractures if any, medications for the autonomic fluctuations and regular follow up.