Central Neurogenic Respiratory Failure: A Challenging Diagnosis

BACKGROUND Central nervous system lesions are rare causes of respiratory failure. Simple observation of the breathing pattern can help localize the lesion, but the examiner needs to be aware of potential pitfalls such as metabolic or pulmonary alterations. METHODS We describe 3 cases in which central neurogenic respiratory failure occurred simultaneously with other alterations or in an unusual presentation. RESULTS All patients were diagnosed with central neurogenic respiratory failure and treated for it with good recovery. CONCLUSION Central neurogenic respiratory failure is a challenging diagnosis and needs to be reminded in difficult-to-wean patients carrying inconclusive evidences of metabolic or pulmonary alterations.