Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus with Intracranial Calcifications in a Child with Thalassemia Minor

Abstract

Introduction: There are numerous causes for intracranial calcification in children. We describe an unusual cause of intracranial calcifications in a child, namely, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI).
Case Report: A 12-year-old boy presented with seizures and developmental delay. MRI of the brain revealed intracranial calcifications. Evaluation showed findings suggestive of NDI. The lack of evidence of any other metabolic defect suggests that these calcifications were secondary to NDI. He also had anemia for which he was investigated and diagnosed as thalassemia minor. Detailed literature review failed to reveal any reported association between NDI and thalassemia minor.
Conclusion: We report this case to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of NDI to prevent organic brain damage.

Keywords: Developmental Delay; Intracranial Calcifications; Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus; Seizures; Thalassemia Minor