Delayed onset of ataxia in a patient with short bowel syndrome: A case of vitamin E deficiency

Chronic gastrointestinal disease can result in nutritional deficiencies that can have a direct effect on the neurologic system. Although acute abnormalities can be corrected, symptoms are rarely reversible. Recognizing the appropriate abnormality is a crucial part of long-term treatment strategies in this population. Because motor and cerebellar symptoms can contribute to poor feeding, aggressive supplementation should begin as soon as symptoms are recognized. We present a patient with delayed onset and progressive hypovitaminosis E and briefly review diagnostic and therapeutic options.