Cerebral edema associated with betaine treatment in classical homocystinuria

J Pediatr. 2004 Apr;144(4):545-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2003.12.041.

Abstract

A child with cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency developed cerebral edema 4 to 6 weeks after starting betaine therapy. There was no evidence of intracranial thrombosis, but there was widespread edema of the white matter. He recovered fully after emergency decompressive craniotomy and withdrawal of betaine.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Betaine / administration & dosage
  • Betaine / adverse effects*
  • Brain Edema / chemically induced*
  • Brain Edema / surgery
  • Child, Preschool
  • Craniotomy
  • Cystathionine beta-Synthase / deficiency
  • Decompression, Surgical
  • Gastrointestinal Agents / administration & dosage
  • Gastrointestinal Agents / adverse effects*
  • Homocystinuria / complications
  • Homocystinuria / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male

Substances

  • Gastrointestinal Agents
  • Betaine
  • Cystathionine beta-Synthase