Abstract

Central hypoventilation resulting from a congenital neurological defect has been well described in children and young adults and is often referred to as "Ondine's Curse". However, acquired central neurological causes of reduced ventilation are rare, even in those with extensive cerebrovascular disease. Hypoventilation secondary to brainstem stroke resulting in chronic respiratory failure is extremely uncommon.1 We present an elderly patient with central hypoventilation and discuss the diagnosis and management of suspected cases.