Hyperammonemic coma in an ornithine transcarbamylase mutation carrier following antepartum corticosteroids

Women who are carriers of the ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) mutation are at risk for developing hyperammonemia during the postpartum period and at times of metabolic stress. We present a unique case of hyperammonemic coma occurring in an OTC mutation carrier during the antepartum period. Multiple factors, including the administration of antenatal corticosteroids, likely precipitated this critical condition. Clinicians should be aware of this life-threatening clinical presentation and be prepared to identify, treat, and prevent hyperammonemia in affected individuals. Journal of Perinatology (2011) 31, 682-684; doi:10.1038/jp.2011.23