A Rare Case of Hemichorea-Hemiballismus Due to Chronic Uncontrolled Hyperglycemia

Abstract

Chronic uncontrolled hyperglycemia is a rare yet important cause of hemichorea-hemiballismus and very common among postmenopausal women. This case report illustrates the importance of recognizing hyperglycemia as a potential cause of hemiballismus. There is a need to differentiate hyperglycaemic intracranial changes from other intracranial pathologies, as prompt glycemic control can help improve hemiballistic symptoms and prevent a more aggressive or invasive workup.

Keywords: hemichorea-hemiballismus; uncontrolled hyperglycemia.