Background:

paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity consists of self-limited episodes of arterial hypertension, tachycardia, tachypnea, hyperhidrosis, decreased level of consciousness, increased muscle tone with extension posture, hyperthermia, sialorrhea and mydriasis. Frequently their recognition is delayed, which increases morbidity and mortality.

Objective:

to make known the importance of an early diagnosis and treatment of the entity for greater survival of the affected patient.

Case report:

a 33-years-old female patient who developed a paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity associated with obstructive hydrocephalus.

Conclusions:

the entity should be suspected in patients with acute brain damage of various etiologies. Early diagnosis is vital to avoid unnecessary diagnostic studies and interventions and to initiate a rapid and appropriate treatment that modifies the evolution of the syndrome.

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