Hyperosmolar nonketotic hyperglycemia manifested as ascending polyneuropathy.

We have described a case of hyperosmolar nonketotic hyperglycemia atypically manifested as an ascending progressive predominantly motor neuropathy with sensory involvement. Although the patient noticed polydipsia, the lack of endogenous renal function prevented the expected polyuria and dehydration. Treatment with insulin produced such marked clinical improvement that 15 days after admission he was discharged home, fully mobile and self-sufficient. Because hyperosmolar nonketotic decompensation is uncommon and patients may initially have neurologic signs without a previous history of diabetes mellitus, the diagnosis may be overlooked.