Shoshin beriberi mimicking central line sepsis in a child with short bowel syndrome.
BACKGROUND
Shoshin beriberi, cardiac failure secondary to a severe deficiency of the vitamin thiamine, can develop in patients following extensive intestinal resection or bypass; however, parenteral supplementation has largely eliminated this complication. Hemodynamic instability resulting from central line sepsis is a far more common complication in these parenteral nutrition-dependent patients. This case report details the diagnosis and treatment of shoshin beriberi in a patient with short bowel syndrome whose presentation mimicked central line sepsis.


METHODS
A retrospective chart review was performed. Appropriate laboratory data were included.


RESULTS
The patient was treated unsuccessfully with antibiotics and supportive measures. Resolution of symptoms was achieved only after the empiric administration of thiamine and folate.


CONCLUSIONS
This case highlights that life-threatening thiamine deficiency mimicking septic shock can develop in patients with short bowel syndrome, despite oral multivitamin administration. We recommend diligent monitoring of vitamin levels in any total parenteral alimentation dependent patient unable to receive the intravenous multivitamin complex, regardless of oral vitamin supplementation or clinical findings.
Greenspon
Jose
J
Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA.
Perrone
Erin E
EE
Alaish
Samuel M
SM
D001602:Beriberi / Q000175:diagnosis*; D055499:Catheter-Related Infections / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D018805:Sepsis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D012778:Short Bowel Syndrome / Q000628:therapy