Central pontine myelinolysis: report of two occurrences after cisplatin-containing chemotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

We report two patients with the classical clinical syndrome of central pontine myelinolysis following cisplatin based chemotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The diagnosis was supported by typical features on magnetic resonance imaging. Rapid correction of hyponatraemia was the most likely cause. A short course of corticosteroids was tried in both patients. Although one patient experienced almost complete recovery, the other still suffered from residual motor deficit. The importance of careful monitoring of the rate of electrolyte correction is emphasized.