What is central pontine myelinolysis?

What is central pontine myelinolysis?

Central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) is a condition affecting myelin and nerve cells in the middle part of your brainstem called the pons. Your brainstem relays information between your spinal cord and the larger “thinking” part of your brain. It also helps control essential functions like breathing, digestion and heart rate. Another name for CPM is osmotic demyelination syndrome.

In central pontine myelinolysis (CPM), damage to the myelin sheath — the protective covering around nerve cells— happens and can lead to the injury and death of nerve cells in the pons. This damage most commonly occurs when your sodium levels rise too quickly, usually as a result of being treated for low sodium levels.

CPM has a wide range of symptoms, including muscle weakness, paralysis, difficulty speaking and behavioral changes. Many people with CPM recover fully. Others may have ongoing disabilities that interfere with their daily lives. In rare cases, CPM leads to death.