Opsoclonus revealing underlying multiple system atrophy: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Delayed emergence from general anesthesia has multiple etiologies; in rare cases, it may unmask an unrecognized neurodegenerative disorder.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 64-year-old man underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy under general anesthesia. No neurological abnormalities were identified preoperatively. After surgery, response to verbal stimuli was inadequate; however, other extubation criteria were met and he was extubated. Approximately 45 min later, rapid nystagmus-like eye movements consistent with opsoclonus developed, initially oscillating horizontally and then vertically, and persisted for about six minutes. A similar episode recurred 125 min after extubation. Head computed tomography showed no acute lesions but revealed marked cerebellar and brainstem atrophy. Subsequent neurological evaluation, including magnetic resonance imaging demonstrating the "hot cross bun" sign, fulfilled the Movement Disorder Society diagnostic criteria for clinically established multiple system atrophy with predominant parkinsonism.

CONCLUSIONS

In unexplained delayed emergence from general anesthesia, opsoclonus should prompt evaluation for an underlying neurodegenerative disorder.