Neuromyelitis Optica Complicated by Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency Treated Safely with Pulse Steroid Therapy

Intern Med. 2021 Oct 15;60(20):3321-3324. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.6885-20. Epub 2021 Apr 19.

Abstract

Steroid administration to patients with urea cycle disorders can cause hyperammonemia. We encountered a 36-year-old woman with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) complicated by ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency. By reducing the doses of steroids and adequate infusion management, we were able to administer pulse steroid therapy without any severe complications. This case indicates the safety of steroid treatment in patients with urea cycle disorders.

Keywords: neuromyelitis optica; ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency; pulse steroid therapy; urea cycle disorders.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Eating
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperammonemia*
  • Neuromyelitis Optica* / complications
  • Neuromyelitis Optica* / drug therapy
  • Ornithine Carbamoyltransferase Deficiency Disease* / complications
  • Ornithine Carbamoyltransferase Deficiency Disease* / diagnosis
  • Ornithine Carbamoyltransferase Deficiency Disease* / drug therapy