An unusual presentation in a patient with metachromatic leukodystrophy

Abstract

A 2-year-old child was admitted with bilateral bronchopneumonia. During convalescence he sustained sudden respiratory arrest for which he required ventilatory support. He had undergone cholecystectomy 1 month prior to the above episode. The pathological examination of the gall bladder mass had revealed the features of metachromatic leukodystrophy. Gastro-oesophageal reflux, which is associated with this neurological disorder, was suspected to be the cause of this sudden respiratory arrest and its presence was confirmed by barium swallow examination.