What is a potential consequence of correcting sodium levels too quickly in patients with central pontine myelinolysis (CPM)?

Correcting sodium levels too quickly in patients with central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) can lead to irreversible brain damage. This condition arises from rapid shifts in serum sodium levels, particularly hypernatremia, which can damage the myelin sheaths in the central part of the pons. When sodium is corrected too rapidly, it can lead to significant cellular changes, including osmotic demyelination, resulting in severe neurological deficits.

The processes involved in myelinolysis can cause lasting damage that does not recover with time. Neurological symptoms may include difficulties with movements, speech, swallowing, and other cognitive functions that reflect the extent of brain damage. Therefore, it’s critical to manage sodium levels gradually to prevent these serious complications, thus highlighting the importance of careful monitoring and adjustment of sodium levels to protect the brain's integrity.