A Case of Vitamin E Deficiency Syndrome Following Extensive Intestinal Resection

ABSTRACT

Both the inherited and acquired forms of vitamin E deficiency are implicated in chronic progressive neurological deficit. The clinical features include ataxia and prominent proprioceptive loss with depressed or absent tendon reflexes. We report a 63-year-old man with vitamin E deficiency syndrome caused by chronic fat malabsorption following exten-sive intestinal resection. Although replacement therapy prevented further deterioration, symptomatic improvement was not observed for two years. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment is crucial.