Recurrent Hypoglycemia in an 80-Year-Old Diabetic Uremic Female Presenting as Transient Hemiparesis: A Case Report

Abstract

Recurrent hypoglycemia is not uncommon in patients taking sulfonylurea, especially elder patients with poor renal function. Hypoglycemic hemiparesis is rare and can be misdiagnosed as cerebral infarction. We herein present a case of transient hypoglycemic hemiparesis which developed as recurrent hypoglycemia in an 80-year-old diabetic uremic female. She was sent to the emergency room due to the loss of consciousness. A prompt dextrose supply corrected the situation, but recurrent hypoglycemia and transient hemiparesis developed the next morning. The plasma glucose level was 31 mg/dl and 41 mg/dl, respectively. Early diagnosis of transient hemiparesis and optimal glycemic control is critical in elderly patients, because hypoglycemia may lead to a fatal clinical course if not treated promptly.