CENTRAL HYPOVENTILATION SYNDROME AS A CONSEQUENCE OF MEDULLARY INFARCTION: A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Abstract

The medulla oblongata is crucial for respiratory function as it contains groups of neurons that control and maintain spontaneous respiration. Dysfunction of these neurons most commonly due to ischemic infarction leads to a significant disturbance of spontaneous respiration which manifests as severe respiratory failure during sleep. We present the case of a woman who after a stroke experienced episodes of apnea and subsequently respiratory arrest requiring invasive mechanical ventilation.