Metabolic Encephalopathy Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

• Confusion or agitation
• Changes in behavior and personality
• Forgetfulness
• Disorientation
• Insomnia
• Muscle stiffness or rigidity
• Tremor (particularly a flapping tremor of the hands)
• Difficulty speaking
• Asterixis (rapid momentary loss of tone in the muscles)
• Uncontrollable movements or seizures (rare)
• Stupor or coma

These problems can develop quickly. They may resolve when the condition is reversed. However, prompt treatment is needed before a coma occurs.

Diagnosis

This condition is very serious. It can quickly become an emergency. You will need to be hospitalized. Doctors will do an exam to assess your neurological condition.

The following tests may be done:

• Blood tests—usually show high blood ammonia levels and other abnormalities related to the failing liver
• Electroencephalogram (EEG)—may be used to determine how the brain has been affected
• Imaging studies of the brain ( CT scan or MRI )—may be done to evaluate other causes