A 54-Year-Old Hospitalized Man Develops New-Onset Slurring of Speech and Extremity

A 54-year-old hospitalized man develops new-onset slurring of speech and extremity weakness.  Medical history is significant for alcohol abuse.  Physical examination reveals confusion, dysarthria, dysphagia, and quadriparesis.  MRI of the brain shows symmetric areas of demyelination in the pons.  Which of the following most likely predisposed this patient to his current condition?

A) Atheroma formation in the vertebrobasilar arteries
B) Hematogenous dissemination of microbial agents
C) Nutritional deficiency of water-soluble vitamin
D) Overly rapid correction of electrolyte abnormalities
E) Paraneoplastic production of anti-neuronal antibodies

Correct Answer:

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