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NINDS Central Pontine Myelinolysis Information Page

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Synonym(s):   Extrapontine Myelinolysis

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What is Central Pontine Myelinolysis?

Central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) is a neurological disorder that most frequently occurs after too rapid medical correction of sodium deficiency (hyponatremia). The rapid rise in sodium concentration is accompanied by the movement of small molecules and pulls water from brain cells. Through a mechanism that is only partly understood, the shift in water and brain molecules leads to the destruction of myelin, a substance that surrounds and protects nerve fibers. Nerve cells (neurons) can also be damaged. Certain areas of the brain are particularly susceptible to myelinolysis, especially the part of the brainstem called the pons.  Some individuals will also have damage in other areas of the brain, which is called extrapontine myelinolysis (EPM). Experts estimate that 10 percent of those with CPM will also have areas of EPM.

The initial symptoms of myelinolysis, which begin to appear 2 to 3 days after hyponatremia is corrected, include a depressed level of awareness, difficulty speaking (dysarthria or mutism), and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).  Additional symptoms often arise over the next 1-2 weeks including impaired thinking, weakness or paralysis in the arms and legs, stiffness, impaired sensation, and difficulty with coordination.  At its most severe, myelinolysis can lead to coma, “locked-in” syndrome (which is the complete paralysis of all of the voluntary muscles in the body except for those that control the eyes), and death. 

Although many affected people improve over weeks to months, some have permanent disability. Some also develop new symptoms later including behavioral or intellectual impairment or movement disorders like parkinsonism or tremor.

Anyone, including adults and children, who undergoes a rapid rise in serum sodium is at risk for myelinolysis. Some individuals who are particularly vulnerable are chronic alcoholics and liver transplant patients. Myelinolysis has occurred in individuals undergoing renal dialysis, burn victims, people with HIV-AIDS, people over-using water loss pills (diuretics), and women with eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia.  The risk for CPM is greater if the serum (blood) sodium was low for at least 2 days before correction. 

Is there any treatment?

The ideal treatment for myelinolysis is to prevent the disorder by identifying individuals at risk and following careful guidelines for evaluation and correction of hyponatremia. These guidelines aim to safely restore the serum sodium level, while protecting the brain. For those who have hyponatremia for at least 2 days, or for whom the duration is not known, the rate of rise in the serum sodium concentration should be kept below 10 mmol/L during any 24-hour period, if possible.

For those who develop myelinolysis, treatment is supportive. Some physicians have tried to treat myelinolysis with steroid medication or other experimental therapies, but none has been proven effective. Individuals are likely to require extensive and prolonged physical therapy and rehabilitation.  Those patients who develop parkinsonian symptoms may respond to the dopaminergic drugs that work for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

What is the prognosis?

The prognosis for myelinolysis is variable.  Some individuals die and others recover completely.  Although the disorder was originally considered to have a mortality rate of 50 percent or more, improved imaging techniques and early diagnosis have led to a better prognosis for many people.  Most individuals improve gradually, but still continue to have challenges with speech, walking, emotional ups and downs, and forgetfulness. 

What research is being done?

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) supports research related to CPM and CPM in laboratories at the NIH, and funds additional research through grants to major medical institutions across the country.  Much of this research focuses on finding better ways to prevent, treat, and ultimately cure these disorders.

NIH Patient Recruitment for   Clinical Trials



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Last updated February 26, 2008