[Spinocerebellar ataxia and polyneuropathy secondary to vitamin E deficiency].
BACKGROUND
Cerebellar ataxia or peripheral neuropathy can be signs of vitamin E deficiency. We report two cases.


METHODS
Two patients developed vitamin E deficiency subsequent to intestinal malabsorption. The first patient had a duodenogastric communication and dilatation of the first jejunal loop. The second patient had deficient pancreas secretion and dilatation of the biliary tree.


CONCLUSIONS
Vitamin E deficiency is generally secondary to acquired or hereditary malabsorption syndrome. It can also occur in the absence of malabsorption by hereditary deficiency in alpha-tocopherol transporter. Vitamin E supplements are required for malabsorption. The etiology work-up of neuropathy or cerebellar ataxia should include vitamin E assay.
Guiraud-Chaumeil
C
C
Service des Maladies du Système Nerveux et du Muscle, Hôpitaux Universitaires, Strasbourg.
Battaglia
F
F
Tranchant
C
C
Warter
J M
JM
D000293:Adolescent; D004576:Electromyography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008286:Malabsorption Syndromes / Q000150:complications; D008875:Middle Aged; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D012678:Sensation Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D013132:Spinocerebellar Degenerations / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D014810:Vitamin E / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014811:Vitamin E Deficiency / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology
D014810:Vitamin E