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Abboud H, Sun R, Modak N, Elkasaby M, Wang A, Levy M. Spinal movement disorders in NMOSD, MOGAD, and idiopathic transverse myelitis: a prospective observational study. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12527-6. [PMID: 38977461 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12527-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retrospective studies suggest that spinal movement disorders, especially tonic spasms, are prevalent in NMOSD. However, there have been no prospective studies evaluating spinal movement disorders in NMOSD, MOGAD, and idiopathic transverse myelitis (ITM). METHODS Patients referred to a tertiary neuroimmunology clinic for spinal cord demyelination (excluding MS) were evaluated. All patients answered a movement disorders survey and underwent a movement disorder-focused exam. Movement disorders were compared among patients with NMOSD with and without AQP4-IgG, MOGAD, and ITM. Patients with and without involuntary movements were also compared to identify predictors of spinal movement disorders. RESULTS Sixty-three patients were evaluated from 2017 to 2021 (71% females, median age 49 years, range 18-72 years, median disease duration 12 months, range 1-408). Of the total, 49% had ITM, 21% had NMOSD without AQP4-IgG, 19% had NMOSD with AQP4-IgG, and 11% had MOGAD. Movement disorders were present in 73% of the total patients and were most frequent in NMOSD with AQP4-IgG (92%) and least frequent in MOGAD (57%). The most frequent spinal movement disorders were tonic spasms (57%), focal dystonia (25%), spinal tremor (16%), spontaneous clonus (9.5%), secondary restless limb syndrome (9.5%), and spinal myoclonus (8%). Multivariate analysis showed that longitudinally extensive myelitis and AQP4-IgG are independent risk factors for the development of spinal movement disorders, while MOG-IgG and African American race were associated with a lower risk of developing these movement disorders. CONCLUSIONS Spinal movement disorders are highly prevalent in non-MS demyelinating disorders of the spinal cord. Prevalence rates exceed those reported in MS and retrospective NMOSD studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham Abboud
- Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Program, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Bolwell, 5th Floor, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
- Parkinson's and Movement Disorders Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Rongyi Sun
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Nikhil Modak
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mohamed Elkasaby
- Parkinson's and Movement Disorders Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Alexander Wang
- Parkinson's and Movement Disorders Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Michael Levy
- Division of Neuroimmunology and Neuroinfectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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Zhou Y, Chen Q, Gan W, Lin X, Wang B, Zhou M, Wu X, Hong D, Chen H. Comparison between MRI-negative and positive results and the predictors for a poor prognosis in patients with idiopathic acute transverse myelitis. BMC Neurol 2024; 24:226. [PMID: 38951761 PMCID: PMC11218061 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-024-03738-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic acute transverse myelitis (IATM) is a focal inflammatory disorder of the spinal cord that results in motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction. However, the comparative analysis of MRI-negative and MRI-positive in IATM patients were rarely reported. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to compare MRI-negative with MRI-positive groups in IATM patients, analyze the predictors for a poor prognosis, thus explore the relationship between MRI-negative and prognosis. METHODS We selected 132 patients with first-attack IATM at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University from May 2018 to May 2022. Patients were divided into MRI-positive and MRI-negative group according to whether there were responsible spinal MRI lesions, and good prognosis and poor prognosis based on whether the EDSS score ≥ 4 at follow-up. The predictive factors of poor prognosis in IATM patients was analyzed by logistic regression models. RESULTS Of the 132 patients, 107 first-attack patients who fulfilled the criteria for IATM were included in the study. We showed that 43 (40%) patients had a negative spinal cord MRI, while 27 (25%) patients were identified as having a poor prognosis (EDSS score at follow-up ≥ 4). Compared with MRI-negative patients, the MRI-positive group was more likely to have back/neck pain, spinal cord shock and poor prognosis, and the EDSS score at follow-up was higher. We also identified three risk factors for a poor outcome: absence of second-line therapies, high EDSS score at nadir and a positive MRI result. CONCLUSIONS Compared with MRI-negative group, MRI-positive patients were more likely to have back/neck pain, spinal cord shock and poor prognosis, with a higher EDSS score at follow-up. The absence of second-line therapies, high EDSS score at nadir, and a positive MRI were risk factors for poor outcomes in patients with first-attack IATM. MRI-negative patients may have better prognosis, an active second-line immunotherapy for IATM patients may improve clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, China
| | - Qianxi Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, China
| | - Weiming Gan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, China
| | - Xiuwen Lin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, China
| | - Meihong Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, China
| | - Xiaomu Wu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, China
| | - Daojun Hong
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, China.
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, 330006, China.
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Biddle G, Beck RT, Raslan O, Ebinu J, Jenner Z, Hamer J, Hacein-Bey L, Apperson M, Ivanovic V. Autoimmune diseases of the spine and spinal cord. Neuroradiol J 2024; 37:285-303. [PMID: 37394950 PMCID: PMC11138326 DOI: 10.1177/19714009231187340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinicopathological tools have led to the identification of a wide spectrum of autoimmune entities that involve the spine. A clearer understanding of the unique imaging features of these disorders, along with their clinical presentations, will prove invaluable to clinicians and potentially limit the need for more invasive procedures such as tissue biopsies. Here, we review various autoimmune diseases affecting the spine and highlight salient imaging features that distinguish them radiologically from other disease entities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garrick Biddle
- Radiology Department, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Ryan T Beck
- Neuroradiology, Radiology Department, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Osama Raslan
- Radiology Department, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Julius Ebinu
- Neurosurgery Department, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Zach Jenner
- Radiology Department, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - John Hamer
- Neuroradiology, Radiology Department, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Lotfi Hacein-Bey
- Radiology Department, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Michelle Apperson
- Neurology Department, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Vladimir Ivanovic
- Neuroradiology, Radiology Department, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Pesante BD, Paro MR, Nadeem T, Bulsara KR, Choi DB. Lumbar decompression and fusion for symptomatic spinal stenosis in a patient with chronic thoracic sensory level from prior transverse myelitis: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2024; 18:42. [PMID: 38310259 PMCID: PMC10838414 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-024-04367-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many patients with transverse myelitis suffer from sensory loss below the spinal level of the lesion. This is commonly associated with chronic neuropathic pain. However, the presence of somatic pain below a complete thoracic sensory level after transverse myelitis is exceptionally rare, and it is unclear if surgical decompression is an effective form of treatment for these patients. CASE PRESENTATION In this report, we describe a 22-year-old Caucasian female who suffered from chronic lumbar back pain despite a complete thoracic sensory level secondary to prior transverse myelitis. Imaging demonstrated multilevel central stenosis below the sensory level, and her pain improved after surgical decompression. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of symptomatic lumbar stenosis below a sensory level after transverse myelitis successfully treated with surgical decompression. CONCLUSION This is the first reported case of a patient with symptomatic lumbar stenosis after transverse myelitis whose lower back pain and quality of life improved following surgical decompression and fusion. This case provides evidence that typical lumbago is possible in patients with sensory loss from transverse myelitis, and standard lumbar decompression may provide benefit for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin D Pesante
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, UConn Health Center, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA.
| | - Mitch R Paro
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, UConn Health Center, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA
| | | | - Ketan R Bulsara
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - David B Choi
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
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Levy M. Immune-Mediated Myelopathies. Continuum (Minneap Minn) 2024; 30:180-198. [PMID: 38330478 PMCID: PMC10868882 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000001382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Immune-mediated myelopathies are conditions in which the immune system attacks the spinal cord. This article describes the distinguishing characteristics of immune-mediated myelopathies and treatment strategies for patients affected by these disorders. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS New biomarkers, such as aquaporin 4 and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies, in the blood and spinal fluid have led to the identification of antigen-specific immune-mediated myelopathies and approved therapies to prevent disease progression. ESSENTIAL POINTS The first step in the diagnosis of an immune-mediated myelopathy is confirming that the immune system is the cause of the attack by excluding non-immune-mediated causes. The second step is to narrow the differential diagnosis based on objective biomarkers such as serology and MRI patterns. The third step is to treat the specific immune-mediated myelopathy by using evidence-based medicine.
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Shrestha K, Poudel B, Shrestha S, Rai BP, Rajbhandari P, Mishra DK. An unusual case of transverse myelitis in dengue fever: A case report from Nepal. Clin Case Rep 2024; 12:e8461. [PMID: 38268621 PMCID: PMC10805995 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.8461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Key Clinical Message Dengue fever can also have various neurological complications but involvement of the spinal cord is often unusual. This is a case where the patient had transverse myelitis as a complication of dengue fever. Abstract Dengue fever can have various neurological complications but involvement of the spinal cord is often unusual. We report a case of a 49-year-old female, a known case of dengue fever, who presented with urine retention, inability to stand and walk with tingling sensation of bilateral lower limbs. Her vibration and joint position sensation was reduced below T2 level along with altered reflexes but MRI could not explain the examination findings. She was diagnosed clinically as transverse myelitis (TM) in the background of dengue fever. She showed drastic improvement with treatment of steroids. As TM as a complication in a patient with dengue fever is rare, and due to the paucity of similar case reports in Nepal, this case report is of value for the scientific community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kipa Shrestha
- Department of General Practice and Emergency MedicinePatan Academy of Health SciencesLalitpurNepal
| | - Bipin Poudel
- Department of Internal MedicinePatan Academy of Health SciencesLalitpurNepal
| | - Shubham Shrestha
- Department of Internal MedicinePatan Academy of Health SciencesLalitpurNepal
| | - Binay Pravakar Rai
- Department of Internal MedicinePatan Academy of Health SciencesLalitpurNepal
| | - Pranaya Rajbhandari
- Department of Internal MedicinePatan Academy of Health SciencesLalitpurNepal
| | - Deepak Kumar Mishra
- Department of Internal MedicinePatan Academy of Health SciencesLalitpurNepal
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Hu B, Dang G, Chen S, Li S, Guo Y, Li Z. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder mimicking stroke: A case report and literature review. J Neuroimmunol 2023; 385:578223. [PMID: 37992585 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Hemiparesis is a frequently observed manifestation of stroke but exceptionally rare in the context of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). In this case, a 68-year-old woman initially presented with acute right-sided weakness, leading to suspicion of ischemic stroke. However, her symptoms worsened despite treatment with aspirin and statins. Subsequent spinal MRI and aquaporin 4 antibody testing confirmed the diagnosis of NMOSD. The administration of methylprednisolone and immunoglobulin resulted in improved clinical outcomes. This case serves as an illustrative example of the diverse manifestations encountered in NMOSD and underscores the significance of considering this potential etiology in elderly patients to facilitate prompt diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Hu
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Ge Dang
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Siyan Chen
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhuoxing Li
- Department of Neurology, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
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Weidauer S, Hattingen E, Arendt CT. Cervical myelitis: a practical approach to its differential diagnosis on MR imaging. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2023; 195:1081-1096. [PMID: 37479218 DOI: 10.1055/a-2114-1350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differential diagnosis of non-compressive cervical myelopathy encompasses a broad spectrum of inflammatory, infectious, vascular, neoplastic, neurodegenerative, and metabolic etiologies. Although the speed of symptom onset and clinical course seem to be specific for certain neurological diseases, lesion pattern on MR imaging is a key player to confirm diagnostic considerations. METHODS The differentiation between acute complete transverse myelitis and acute partial transverse myelitis makes it possible to distinguish between certain entities, with the latter often being the onset of multiple sclerosis. Typical medullary MRI lesion patterns include a) longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis, b) short-range ovoid and peripheral lesions, c) polio-like appearance with involvement of the anterior horns, and d) granulomatous nodular enhancement prototypes. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Cerebrospinal fluid analysis, blood culture tests, and autoimmune antibody testing are crucial for the correct interpretation of imaging findings. The combination of neuroradiological features and neurological and laboratory findings including cerebrospinal fluid analysis improves diagnostic accuracy. KEY POINTS · The differentiation of medullary lesion patterns, i. e., longitudinal extensive transverse, short ovoid and peripheral, polio-like, and granulomatous nodular, facilitates the diagnosis of myelitis.. · Discrimination of acute complete and acute partial transverse myelitis makes it possible to categorize different entities, with the latter frequently being the overture of multiple sclerosis (MS).. · Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) may start as short transverse myelitis and should not be mistaken for MS.. · The combination of imaging features and neurological and laboratory findings including cerebrospinal fluid analysis improves diagnostic accuracy.. · Additional brain imaging is mandatory in suspected demyelinating, systemic autoimmune, infectious, paraneoplastic, and metabolic diseases..
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Weidauer
- Institute for Neuroradiology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Elke Hattingen
- Institute for Neuroradiology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Puccioni-Sohler M, Nascimento Soares C, Christo PP, Almeida SMD. Review of dengue, zika and chikungunya infections in nervous system in endemic areas. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2023; 81:1112-1124. [PMID: 38157877 PMCID: PMC10756841 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1777104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Dengue, zika, and chikungunya are arboviruses of great epidemiological relevance worldwide. The emergence and re-emergence of viral infections transmitted by mosquitoes constitute a serious human public health problem. The neurological manifestations caused by these viruses have a high potential for death or sequelae. The complications that occur in the nervous system associated with arboviruses can be a challenge for diagnosis and treatment. In endemic areas, suspected cases should include acute encephalitis, myelitis, encephalomyelitis, polyradiculoneuritis, and/or other syndromes of the central or peripheral nervous system, in the absence of a known explanation. The confirmation diagnosis is based on viral (isolation or RT-PCR) or antigens detection in tissues, blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or other body fluids, increase in IgG antibody titers between paired serum samples, specific IgM antibody in cerebrospinal fluid and serological conversion to IgM between paired serum samples (non-reactive in the acute phase and reactive in the convalescent). The cerebrospinal fluid examination can demonstrate: 1. etiological agent; 2. inflammatory reaction or protein-cytological dissociation depending on the neurological condition; 3. specific IgM, 4. intrathecal synthesis of specific IgG (dengue and chikungunya); 5. exclusion of other infectious agents. The treatment of neurological complications aims to improve the symptoms, while the vaccine represents the great hope for the control and prevention of neuroinvasive arboviruses. This narrative review summarizes the updated epidemiology, general features, neuropathogenesis, and neurological manifestations associated with dengue, zika, and chikungunya infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Puccioni-Sohler
- Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Escola de Medicina e Cirurgia, Departamento de Medicina Geral, Rio de Janeiro RJ, Brazil.
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Faculdade de Medicina, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Rio de Janeiro RJ, Brazil.
| | | | - Paulo Pereira Christo
- Santa Casa BH, Faculdade de Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina-Biomedicina, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil.
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Neurologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil.
| | - Sérgio Monteiro de Almeida
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Patologia Médica, Curitiba PR, Brazil.
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Dian S, Ratmadewi NMGS, Gunadharma S, Ganiem AR. Severe mononeuritis multiplex as a rare case of neuro leptospirosis: A case report. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22397. [PMID: 38034645 PMCID: PMC10687052 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by infection of spirochetes of the genus Leptospira. While typically self-limiting and non-fatal, severe manifestations can arise, including various neurological complications that are often overlooked. This case study presents a 59-year-old man with serologically positive Leptospirosis, who subsequently developed asymmetrical progressive leg weakness, severe back pain, and overflow incontinence suggestive of mononeuritis multiplex. Doxycycline treatment was started and intended to last for seven days. The patient had ongoing paraparesis, but all other problems were disappeared. The present case emphasizes the significance of identifying and treating neurological problems brought on by leptospirosis. To improve suitable treatment plans and patient outcomes, more research on these problems is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofiati Dian
- Department of Neurology, Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Disease (RC3ID), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
| | | | - Suryani Gunadharma
- Department of Neurology, Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Ahmad Rizal Ganiem
- Department of Neurology, Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Disease (RC3ID), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
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Corrêa DG, da Cruz LCH, da Rocha AJ, Pacheco FT. Imaging Aspects of Toxic and Metabolic Myelopathies. Semin Ultrasound CT MR 2023; 44:452-463. [PMID: 37555682 DOI: 10.1053/j.sult.2023.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic and toxic myelopathies usually occurs due to several different causes. Metabolic myelopathy usually occurs due to deficiency of a nutrient, such as vitamin B12. Toxic myelopathy occurs secondary to the exposure to an external toxic agent. Although they may have a difficult diagnosis, determination of the specific cause of myelopathy is of utmost importance, because many causes are amenable to treatment. Although they have many clinical, electrophysiologic, and neuropathologic similarities, imaging may aid in the suspicion of toxic or metabolic myelopathy. The aim of this article, is to review the imaging features of the main toxic and metabolic myelopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Goulart Corrêa
- Department of Radiology, Clínica de Diagnóstico por Imagem (CDPI)/DASA, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Department of Radiology, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | | | - Antônio José da Rocha
- Department of Neuroradiology, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Radiology, DASA, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe Torres Pacheco
- Department of Neuroradiology, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Radiology, DASA, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Corrêa DG, de Souza SR, Freddi TDAL, Fonseca APA, Dos Santos RQ, Hygino da Cruz LC. Imaging features of neurosyphilis. J Neuroradiol 2023; 50:241-252. [PMID: 36641134 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurad.2023.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Syphilis is an infectious disease caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum, subspecies pallidum. Although its incidence has declined after the widespread availability of penicillin, it has recently re-emerged, especially in men who have sex with men and in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The neurological manifestations of syphilis, generally known as neurosyphilis, may appear at any time during the infection, including the initial years after the primary infection. Neurosyphilis can be asymptomatic, only with cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities, or symptomatic, characterized by several different clinical syndromes, such as meningitis, gumma, meningovascular, brain parenchyma involvement, meningomyelitis, tabes dorsalis, and peripheral nervous system involvement. However, these syndromes may simulate several other diseases, making the diagnosis often a challenge. In addition, syphilis can also be vertically transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, leading to neurological manifestations. Neuroimaging is essential to demonstrate abnormal brain or spinal cord findings in patients with neurosyphilis, aiding in the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of these patients. This article aims to review the imaging features of neurosyphilis, including the early and late stages of the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Goulart Corrêa
- Department of Radiology, Clínica de Diagnóstico por Imagem (CDPI)/DASA, Avenida das Américas, 4666, 302A, 303, 307, 325, 326, Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 2640-102, Brazil; Department of Radiology, Federal Fluminense University, Rua Marquês de Paraná, 303, Centro, Niterói, RJ 24070-035, Brazil.
| | - Simone Rachid de Souza
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Cidade Universitária da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rua Professor Rodolpho Paulo Rocco, 255, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-617, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Paula Alves Fonseca
- Department of Radiology, UnitedHealth Group, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Radiology, DASA, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Roberto Queiroz Dos Santos
- Department of Radiology, Hospital dos Servidores do Estado, Rua Sacadura Cabral, 178, Saúde, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 20221-903, Brazil; Department of Radiology, Hospital das Américas, United Health Group, Avenida Jorge Curi, 550, Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 22775-001, Brazil
| | - Luiz Celso Hygino da Cruz
- Department of Radiology, Clínica de Diagnóstico por Imagem (CDPI)/DASA, Avenida das Américas, 4666, 302A, 303, 307, 325, 326, Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 2640-102, Brazil
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Owen T, Fung AS. Combination Intravenous Immune Globulin (IVIG) and High Dose Steroids for Treatment of Immune-Related Myelitis in a Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patient Treated With Pembrolizumab and Palliative Radiation Treatment: A Case Report. Clin Lung Cancer 2022; 23:e563-e567. [PMID: 36153193 DOI: 10.1016/j.cllc.2022.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Owen
- Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea S Fung
- Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
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Lingas EC. A Case of Acute Transverse Myelitis in a Mildly Symptomatic Patient: An Emerging and Serious Neurological Manifestation of COVID-19. Cureus 2022; 14:e24222. [PMID: 35602843 PMCID: PMC9117864 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.24222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is known to have neurological manifestations and one of them is acute transverse myelitis (ATM). Despite being exceedingly rare (1.34-4.6 cases per million/year), COVID-19-associated ATM cases have continuously been reported and have significant health impact to patients. This case report presents a previously healthy, unvaccinated male who developed COVID-19-associated ATM.
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Idiopathic longitudinally extensive myelitis: a brief historical excursion (review) and own clinical observation. КЛИНИЧЕСКАЯ ПРАКТИКА 2022. [DOI: 10.17816/clinpract100341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Idiopathic longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis is defined as a focal spinal cord lesion that involves three or more segments of the spinal cord as shown by neuroimaging, and results in a profound disability. The clinical picture of a patient with idiopathic longitudinally advanced transverse myelitis is often dramatic and may consist of paraparesis or tetraparesis, sensory disturbances, and pelvic dysfunction. Idiopathic longitudinally advanced transverse myelitis is a common manifestation of the neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, but can also occur in various other autoimmune and inflammatory diseases of the CNS, such as multiple sclerosis, sarcoidosis, or Sjogrens syndrome, or in infectious diseases involving the CNS. It is less likely to occur in isolation, as the only manifestation of a demyelinating disease of the nervous system of an unknown etiology (idiopathic myelitis).
Clinical case description: The clinical observation presented in the article demonstrates the difficulties of establishing a nosological diagnosis in the case of a monophasic course of TM in the absence of other autoimmune and infectious diseases of the central nervous system. The patient with idiopathic longitudinally distributed TM had no visual disturbances and no antibodies to aquaporin 4 and to myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG-IgG) with twice repeated tests.
Conclusion: In this regard, it is important to dynamically monitor the clinical manifestations and MRI signs in patients with an isolated lesion of a demyelinating nature in the form of longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis.
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Alrubaye R, Bondugula V, Baleguli V, Chofor R. A possible Guillain-Barré syndrome/transverse myelitis overlap syndrome after recent COVID-19. BMJ Case Rep 2022; 15:15/2/e246967. [PMID: 35140089 PMCID: PMC8830199 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-246967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological manifestations are common in SARS-CoV-2 infection, including life-threatening acute muscle weakness, due to neuromuscular disorders such as acute transverse myelitis (TM) and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). These syndromes can rarely coexist and present as an overlap syndrome. Here, we report a patient who developed acute symmetrical proximal lower limb weakness 5 days after diagnosis of COVID-19. GBS was diagnosed due to the presence of motor signs, albumin-cytological dissociation in cerebrospinal fluid examination and axonal damage according to nerve condition tests. However, abnormal areas on MRI of the thoracic spine and lack of improvement with intravenous immunoglobulin supported a diagnosis of TM. Therefore, a possible overlap between GBS and TM was established. To our knowledge, this is the third case report of GBS/TM overlap syndrome after COVID-19. The patient’s full and rapid recovery with intravenous corticosteroids and plasmapheresis supports our diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riyadh Alrubaye
- Department of Hospital Medicine/Internal Medicine Residency Program, Northeast Georgia Health System Inc, Gainesville, Georgia, USA
| | - Vijayamala Bondugula
- Department of Neurology, Northeast Georgia Health System Inc, Gainesville, Georgia, USA
| | - Vidya Baleguli
- Department of GME/Internal Medicine, Northeast Georgia Health System Inc, Gainesville, Georgia, USA
| | - Rosemary Chofor
- Department of GME/Internal Medicine Residency Program, Northeast Georgia Health System Inc, Gainesville, Georgia, USA
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Sedeek KH, Aboualfotouh K, Hassanein SM, Osman NM, Shalaby MH. Role of MRI evaluation in acute secondary inability to walk in children. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43055-021-00417-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Acute bilateral lower limb weakness is a common problem in children which necessitates a rapid method for diagnosis. MRI is a non-invasive imaging technique that produces high-quality images of the internal structure of the brain and spinal cord.
Results
MRI was very helpful in reaching rapid and prompt diagnosis in children with acute inability to walk. Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS), and acute transverse myelitis (ATM) were the most common causes in our study. MRI proved to be of high sensitivity in detecting the lesions and reaching the diagnosis in ADEM and GBS; however, there was no significant relation between the lesions’ size, enhancement pattern, and severity of the disease or prognosis, yet in ATM the site of the lesion and number of cord segment affection were significantly related to the severity of the disease and prognosis.
Conclusion
MRI is a quick tool to reach the diagnosis of children with acute secondary inability to walk, and to eliminate other differential diagnosis which is essential for proper treatment and rapid full recovery. It is highly sensitive in detecting the lesions, their site and size.
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Boussaid S, Rahmouni S, Rekik S, Jammali S, Cheour E, Sahli H, Elleuch M. Acute transverse myelitis revealing ankylosing spondylitis: A case report and literature review. Clin Case Rep 2021; 9:e04878. [PMID: 34631068 PMCID: PMC8489386 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.4878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
When faced with a patient with acute myelopathy, thorough investigations should be undertaken to determine the cause. Ankylosing spondylitis should be kept in mind as a possible cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumaya Boussaid
- Rheumatology Department Rabta Hospital Tunis Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis University Tunis el Manar Tunis Tunisia
| | - Safa Rahmouni
- Rheumatology Department Rabta Hospital Tunis Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis University Tunis el Manar Tunis Tunisia
| | - Sonia Rekik
- Rheumatology Department Rabta Hospital Tunis Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis University Tunis el Manar Tunis Tunisia
| | - Samia Jammali
- Rheumatology Department Rabta Hospital Tunis Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis University Tunis el Manar Tunis Tunisia
| | - Elhem Cheour
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis University Tunis el Manar Tunis Tunisia
- Pain Treatment Center la Rabta hospital Tunis Tunisia
| | - Hela Sahli
- Rheumatology Department Rabta Hospital Tunis Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis University Tunis el Manar Tunis Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Elleuch
- Rheumatology Department Rabta Hospital Tunis Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis University Tunis el Manar Tunis Tunisia
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Patwardhan A, Nalini A, Baishya PP, Kulanthaivelu K, Krishnareddy H, Dutta D, Chawla T, Chowdary RM, Yadav R, Vengalil S. Case Report: Post-Chikungunya-Associated Myeloneuropathy. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2021; 105:942-945. [PMID: 34614478 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-1277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an arbovirus endemic to South Asia with frequent outbreaks. A wide spectrum of neurological complications has been described in Chikungunya infections. Myeloneuropathy is a rare complication seen in Chikungunya and is proposed to have an underlying immune mediated pathogenesis. We report a case of a 45-year-old man presenting to the emergency services with acute onset of quadriparesis, breathlessness, urinary retention, profound pain, and sensory disturbances 6 weeks after the onset of high-grade fever and arthralgia. On examination, the patient had Medical Research Council grade 1 flaccid quadriparesis with prominent wasting and areflexia with distinct sensory level at T4. Immunoglobulin M CHIKV antibodies were positive, tested twice at a 1-week interval. He had notable magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in the form of patchy T2 hyperintensities involving the entire length of the cervical and thoracic cord with normal brain imaging and extensive short tau inversion recovery hyperintense signal changes on muscle MRI. He was treated with five cycles of plasmapheresis and intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral steroids for 8 weeks. At 20-week follow-up, the patient had improvement in upper limb weakness, but paraparesis persisted. The case highlights the presence of unusual MRI findings and also the importance of early recognition of after infective neurological complications, and prompt treatment with immunomodulation may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameya Patwardhan
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Atchayaram Nalini
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Priyanka Priyadarshini Baishya
- Department of Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Karthik Kulanthaivelu
- Department of Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Haripriya Krishnareddy
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Debayan Dutta
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Tanushree Chawla
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | | | - Ravi Yadav
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Seena Vengalil
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
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20
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Bari V, Frommelt J, Jain V. Compressive epidural fluid collection secondary to varicella zoster transverse myelitis. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2021; 2:e12493. [PMID: 34401867 PMCID: PMC8357074 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.12493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Transverse myelitis is often clinically indistinguishable from compressive myelopathies that require emergent neurosurgical intervention. Here, we present a case of acute varicella zoster virus transverse myelitis that was associated with a compressive fluid collection on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) requiring emergent operative intervention. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of acute transverse myelitis and a compressive cord lesion in the adult population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vase Bari
- Department of AnesthesiaEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGAUSA
| | - Jonathan Frommelt
- Department of Emergency MedicineMetrohealth Medical CenterClevelandOhioUSA
- Assistant Professor Emergency MedicineCase Western Reserve University School of MedicineClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Vikas Jain
- Department of RadiologyMetrohealth Medical CenterClevelandOhioUSA
- Associate Professor Emergency MedicineCase Western Reserve University School of MedicineClevelandOhioUSA
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21
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Khedr EM, Karim AA, Soliman RK. Case Report: Acute Spinal Cord Myelopathy in Patients With COVID-19. Front Neurol 2020; 11:610648. [PMID: 33414763 PMCID: PMC7784375 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.610648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is typically associated with fever and severe respiratory symptoms including dry cough and dyspnea. However, COVID-19 may also affect both central and peripheral nervous systems. To date, the incidence rate of spinal cord involvement in COVID-19 is not known and the pathogenesis is still not fully understood. We report here two female patients admitted to Assiut University Hospitals/Egypt during the period from first of July to August 10, 2020. Both presented with a positive SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) nasopharyngeal swab, elevated serum d-dimer and ferritin levels, and bilateral ground glass appearance in a CT chest scan. The first was a 60-year-old female with acute onset of flaccid paraplegia 10 days after flu-like symptoms, in whom MRI revealed transverse myelitis. The second was a 21-year-old female with symptoms of acute quadriplegia, fever, headache, and anosmia in whom an MRI scan revealed long cervico-thoracic myelopathy. Anterior spinal artery occlusion and possibly transverse myelitis were considered as differential diagnosis of long segment myelopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman M Khedr
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Assiut University Hospitals, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A Karim
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Radwa K Soliman
- Department of Radiology, Assiut University Hospitals, Assiut, Egypt
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22
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Acute and subacute myelopathy. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2020; 177:557-566. [PMID: 34024334 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2020.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Myelopathy is a term referring to any pathologic process affecting the spinal cord, and encompasses a broad spectrum of etiologies. The first step is to categorize myelopathy, according to the time to reach maximum deficit. Myelopathies are commonly classified as acute, subacute or chronic, for which the etiologies are totally different. Myelopathy is considered acute when the symptoms progress to their nadir in maximum 21 days after onset. Due to heterogeneity in pathogenesis, and the overlap in the clinical and imaging presentation among etiologies, acute myelopathy is considered as a diagnostic dilemma. A simple and efficient algorithm for timely identification of the underlying cause is thus useful. In this review, we provide a simplified approach for the differential diagnosis among all causes of acute myelopathies, and describe the principal clinical and imaging features of the main etiologies in adults, including recently characterized antibody-mediated myelitis, and its mimics.
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23
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Chronic subclinical spondylotic myelopathy exacerbated by COVID-19: A case report. INTERDISCIPLINARY NEUROSURGERY-ADVANCED TECHNIQUES AND CASE MANAGEMENT 2020; 23:100896. [PMID: 32929401 PMCID: PMC7481863 DOI: 10.1016/j.inat.2020.100896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A first case report of a patient with cervical spondylotic myelopathy and COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 can cause a neurological decline in patients with chronic spinal disorders. Sites of compressive myelopathy may be at risk for detrimental effects of the virus. Steroids may be useful for spinal cord injury associated with COVID-19. COVID-19 has a significant impact on the routine workflow at spine surgery centers.
Introduction Besides typical respiratory symptoms, the coronavirus disease 2019, also known as COVID-19, is characterized by a wide range of neurological symptoms that result from the injury of the brain and peripheral nerves. Only a few reports have described the involvement of the spinal cord among COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, little is known about the risk of individuals with chronic degenerative conditions of the spine for acute neurological complications of COVID-19. Case presentation Here, we describe the case of a 73-year-old man with a subclinical cervical multifocal spondylotic myelopathy that manifested neurological symptoms of spinal cord injury only some days after getting infected with SARS-CoV-2. The patient did not show any data associated with respiratory involvement and improved clinically after decompressive spinal surgery and administration of steroids. Conclusions This is the first reported case of an acute exacerbation of a chronic degenerative condition of the spine caused by COVID-19.
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Transverse myelitis masquerading as cauda equina syndrome, stroke and cervical myelopathy. Biomedicine (Taipei) 2020; 10:45-50. [PMID: 33854913 PMCID: PMC7608839 DOI: 10.37796/2211-8039.1005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Transverse myelitis is an uncommon but well-defined neurological syndrome. However, a high index of suspicion is needed to diagnose this condition, especially when it occurs in concomitance with preexisting spinal canal stenosis. We report our patient, a 48 year old male, who initially presented to our spine clinic with acute onset unilateral lower limb weakness associated with urinary retention, which was suspected to be cauda equina syndrome due to a prolapsed intervertebral disc. However, initial magnetic resonance (MR) imaging showed only mild spinal canal stenosis from L2-L5 and C3– C6 levels; thus, the possibility of cauda equina syndrome was ruled out. A few days later, patient developed ipsilateral upper limb weakness giving an impression of hemiparesis due to stroke. However, imaging of brain returned normal. There was still a dilemma whether symptoms could be due to cervical myelopathy as there was mild cervical cord compression with early myelomalacia changes, but the findings were subtle to come to a definite conclusion. Subsequently, patient desaturated and required ventilatory support. Repeat MR imaging of the cervical spine revealed T2 hyperintensities spanning multiple levels in the cervical cord which highlighted the possibility of transverse myelitis and the diagnosis was clinched after a CSF analysis. Despite the debilitating effects, patient responded well to corticosteroid therapy and gradually recovered. This case is reported to highlight the diagnostic dilemma and the rapid progression of transverse myelitis that demands timely medical intervention to avoid permanent disabilities.
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25
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Tantsis EM, Prelog K, Alper G, Benson L, Gorman M, Lim M, Mohammad SS, Ramanathan S, Brilot F, Dale RC, Ardern‐Holmes S, Banwell B, Camposano S, Gill D, Hopkins S, Menezes M, Nosadini M, Ouvrier R, Procopis P, Riney K, Webster R. Magnetic resonance imaging in enterovirus-71, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody, aquaporin-4 antibody, and multiple sclerosis-associated myelitis in children. Dev Med Child Neurol 2019; 61:1108-1116. [PMID: 30537075 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM We used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to compare the neuroimaging of children with their first episode of clinical enterovirus 71-associated transverse myelitis (EV71-TM), myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody positive transverse myelitis (MOG-TM), aquaporin-4 antibody positive transverse myelitis (AQP4-TM), transverse myelitis in multiple sclerosis (MS-TM), and unclassified transverse myelitis (UNC-TM). METHOD We performed a retrospective blinded radiological assessment and compared the neuroimaging of 52 children (32 females, 20 males; mean age 9y 8mo, SD 5y 5mo, range 5mo-17y) presenting with their first episode of myelitis caused by EV71-TM (n=11), MOG-TM (n=10), AQP4-TM (n=9), MS-TM (n=13), and UNC-TM (n=9). RESULTS In the EV71-TM group, lesions were distributed throughout the cord and enhancement of nerve roots (ventral and dorsal) was common. The MOG-TM group had lesions distributed throughout the cord and most commonly longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis and lesions involving the grey matter alone on axial scans. The AQP4-TM group had lesions distributed in the cervicothoracic spine, cavitation, and contrast enhancing lesions. All patients with AQP4-TM had an abnormal brain MRI scan. The MS-TM group characteristically had multiple short segment lesions of the cord involving the cervicothoracic spine. The UNC-TM group did not have distinctive spinal MRI findings but had a relative paucity of lesions on their brain MRI scans. INTERPRETATION There are neuroimaging findings that are helpful in differentiating between myelitis associated with EV71, MOG, AQP4, and multiple sclerosis in children. These features may be useful early in the presentation of transverse myelitis while awaiting infectious/immunological testing, and/or further demyelinating events. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Magnetic resonance imaging can help identify aetiologies for children presenting with a first episode of myelitis. Entervirus-71-associated myelitis lesions are distributed throughout the cord and enhancement of nerve roots is common. Lesions distributed throughout the cord are commonly seen in myelin oligodendrocyte-associated myelitis. Aquaporin-4-associated myelitis lesions are distributed in the cervicothoracic spine, cavitation and contrast enhancing lesions are common. Short segment lesions in the cervicothoracic spine are commonly seen in multiple sclerosis-associated myelitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther M Tantsis
- Neuroimmunology Group, Institute for Neuroscience and Muscle Research, The Kids Research Institute, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kristina Prelog
- Medical Imaging Department, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gulay Alper
- Clinical Neuroimmunology Program, Division of Child Neurology Department of Paediatrics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Ming Lim
- Children's Neurosciences Centre, Evelina Children's Hospital, Newcomen Centre at St Thomas', St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
| | - Shekeeb S Mohammad
- Neuroimmunology Group, Institute for Neuroscience and Muscle Research, The Kids Research Institute, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sudarshini Ramanathan
- Neuroimmunology Group, Institute for Neuroscience and Muscle Research, The Kids Research Institute, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Fabienne Brilot
- Neuroimmunology Group, Institute for Neuroscience and Muscle Research, The Kids Research Institute, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Russell C Dale
- Neuroimmunology Group, Institute for Neuroscience and Muscle Research, The Kids Research Institute, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,T.Y. Nelson Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Sarbu N, Lolli V, Smirniotopoulos JG. Magnetic resonance imaging in myelopathy: a pictorial review. Clin Imaging 2019; 57:56-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2019.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Clinical Approach to Pediatric Transverse Myelitis, Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder and Acute Flaccid Myelitis. CHILDREN-BASEL 2019; 6:children6050070. [PMID: 31109018 PMCID: PMC6560417 DOI: 10.3390/children6050070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric transverse myelitis (TM) is an acquired, immune-mediated disorder that leads to injury of the spinal cord and often manifests as weakness, numbness, bowel dysfunction, and/or bladder dysfunction. Multiple etiologies for myelitis can result in a similar clinical presentation, including idiopathic transverse myelitis (TM), multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyeltis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) associated with anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies, MOG antibody-associated disease, and acute flaccid myelitis (AFM). Diagnosis relies on clinical recognition of the syndrome and confirming inflammation through imaging and/or laboratory studies. Acute treatment is targeted at decreasing immune-mediated injury, and chronic preventative therapy may be indicated if TM is determined to be a manifestation of a relapsing disorder (i.e., NMOSD). Timely recognition and treatment of acute transverse myelitis is essential, as it can be associated with significant morbidity and long-term disability.
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Magnetic resonance imaging in immune-mediated myelopathies. J Neurol 2019; 267:1233-1244. [PMID: 30694379 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-019-09206-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Immune-mediated myelopathies are a heterogeneous group of inflammatory spinal cord disorders including autoimmune disorders with known antibodies, e.g. aquaporin-4 IgG channelopathy or anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-associated myelitis, myelopathies in the context of multiple sclerosis and systemic autoimmune disorders with myelopathy, as well as post-infectious and paraneoplastic myelopathies. Although magnetic resonance imaging of the spinal cord is still challenging due to the small dimension of the cord cross-section and frequent movement and susceptibility artifacts, recent methodological advances have led to improved diagnostic evaluation and characterization of immune-mediated myelopathies. Topography, length and width of the lesion, gadolinium enhancement pattern, and changes in morphology over time help in narrowing the broad differential diagnosis. In this review, we give an overview of recent advances in magnetic resonance imaging of immune-mediated myelopathies and its role in the differential diagnosis and monitoring of this heterogeneous group of disorders.
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Retained Glass Fragment in the Cervical Spinal Canal in a Patient with Acute Transverse Myelitis: A Case Report and Literature Review. Case Rep Neurol Med 2018; 2018:5129513. [PMID: 30009065 PMCID: PMC6000836 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5129513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
A 50-year-old male presented with a one-day history of right leg weakness, numbness, and urinary retention. Weakness was present for two weeks but worsened significantly during the last 24 hours. On the right there was sensory loss in the leg and below the Th8 dermatome. On the left there was sensory loss below the Th10 dermatome and distal loss of temperature sensation. Past medical history revealed a cervical trauma 30 years ago when a glass chip lodged into the left side of the neck. The patient did not seek medical attention after removing it himself. No neurological symptoms followed the incident. No cervical manipulation or other physical trauma occurred before current symptom onset. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging showed features consistent with myelitis at the level of C4–Th3. At the level of C6–C7, a T1 and T2 hypointense lesion was noted. On computed tomography, this lesion was hyperdense and occupied the spinal canal and the left intervertebral foramen. It was deemed to be a glass fragment. Surgical removal was withheld because the fragment was clinically silent for 30 years, the risk of surgical removal would outweigh the benefits and the patient did not prefer surgical treatment. Acute demyelinating transverse myelitis was diagnosed and treated with methylprednisolone. 10 months later MR features of myelitis resolved and the patient's neurological condition improved. Our case shows that foreign bodies in the cervical spinal canal can remain asymptomatic for up to 30 years. In the case of a long asymptomatic retention period the need for surgical removal of a foreign body must be carefully evaluated, taking into account the probability that a foreign body is the cause of current symptoms, risk of a foreign body causing damage in the future, risk of damage to the spinal cord during removal, and probability of therapeutic success.
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Pohlen MS, Sunwei Lin J, Wang KY, Ghasemi-Rad M, Lincoln CM. Haemorrhagic conversion of infectious myelitis in an immunocompromised patient. BMJ Case Rep 2017; 2017:bcr-2017-221866. [PMID: 29197841 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2017-221866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
A 28-year-old man recently diagnosed with HIV (CD4 19 cells/mm3, viral load 3.6 million copies/mL, not on highly active antiretroviral therapy on initial diagnosis at outside hospital), disseminated histoplasmosis, shingles and syphilis presented with paraplegia developing over 3 days. Spine MRI demonstrated a longitudinally extensive cord lesion extending from C3 to the tip of the conus. Brain MRI was consistent with meningoencephalitis. Cerebrospinal fluid findings were notable for positive varicella zoster virus (VZV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) PCRs as well as a Venereal Disease Research Laboratory titre of 1:2. Patient was started on treatment for VZV and CMV meningoencephalitis, neurosyphilis and high-dose steroids for infectious myelitis. Repeat spine MRI demonstrated subacute intramedullary haemorrhage of the cervical cord. He was ultimately discharged to a skilled nursing facility for long-term intravenous antiviral therapy and rehabilitation. After 59 days in the hospital, his neurological exam remained grossly unchanged, with flaccid paraplegia and lack of sensation to fine touch in his lower extremities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kevin Yuqi Wang
- Department of Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Christie M Lincoln
- Department of Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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Jafri K, Patterson SL, Lanata C. Central Nervous System Manifestations of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2017; 43:531-545. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Myelitis in systemic lupus erythematosus. J Clin Neurosci 2017; 44:18-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Clinical Features in Acute and Subacute Myelopathies. Clin Neuroradiol 2017; 27:417-433. [PMID: 28667382 DOI: 10.1007/s00062-017-0604-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Differential diagnosis of acute and subacute transverse myelopathy includes inflammatory, infectious, vascular, metabolic and paraneoplastic etiologies. Information on the diagnostic approach to transverse myelopathy with regard to daily clinical practice is provided. The differentiation between five lesion patterns on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in myelitis may be helpful: (1) longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis, (2) short segment ovoid or peripherally located, (3) "polio-like", (4) granulomatous and (5) segmental with rash. A correlation with these imaging features is supported if the clinical course and neurological symptoms are known. Although the mean interval from onset to nadir of symptoms in spinal cord infarction is 1 h, an overlap with a fulminant course of myelitis is possible, and impaired diffusion may also occur in acute inflammatory processes. As a result, laboratory testing, including aquaporin-4 antibodies and cerebrospinal fluid analysis, is crucial for the correct interpretation of imaging findings. Moreover, the discrimination of acute complete and acute partial transverse myelitis is advantageous in order to identify diverse entities, the latter often being a precursor to multiple sclerosis. Additional brain imaging is mandatory in suspected demyelinating, infectious, neoplastic and systemic autoimmune disease. A symmetrical lesion pattern restricted to individual tracts or dorsal columns indicates subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord and, in addition to deficiency syndromes, a paraneoplastic etiology should be considered.
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Talbott JF, Narvid J, Chazen JL, Chin CT, Shah V. An Imaging-Based Approach to Spinal Cord Infection. Semin Ultrasound CT MR 2016; 37:411-30. [PMID: 27616314 DOI: 10.1053/j.sult.2016.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Infections of the spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding meninges are uncommon, but highly significant given their potential for severe morbidity and even mortality. Prompt diagnosis can be lifesaving, as many spinal infections are treatable. Advances in imaging technology have now firmly established magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as the gold standard for spinal cord imaging evaluation, enabling the depiction of infectious myelopathies with exquisite detail and contrast. In this article, we aim to provide an overview of MRI findings for spinal cord infections with special focus on imaging patterns of infection that are primarily confined to the spinal cord, spinal meninges, and spinal nerve roots. In this context, we describe and organize this review around 5 distinct patterns of transverse spinal abnormality that may be detected with MRI as follows: (1) extramedullary, (2) centromedullary, (3) eccentric, (4) frontal horn, and (5) irregular. We seek to classify the most common presentations for a wide variety of infectious agents within this image-based framework while realizing that significant overlap and variation exists, including some infections that remain occult with conventional imaging techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason F Talbott
- Department of Radiology, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, CA; Brain and Spinal Injury Center, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, CA.
| | - Jared Narvid
- Department of Radiology, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, CA
| | - J Levi Chazen
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical School, New York, NY
| | - Cynthia T Chin
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Department of Radiology, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, CA; Brain and Spinal Injury Center, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, CA; Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical School, New York, NY
| | - Vinil Shah
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Department of Radiology, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, CA
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Presas-Rodríguez S, Grau-López L, Hervás-García J, Massuet-Vilamajó A, Ramo-Tello C. Myelitis: Differences between multiple sclerosis and other aetiologies. NEUROLOGÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2015.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Gupta A, Kumar SN, Taly AB. Neurological and functional recovery in acute transverse myelitis patients with inpatient rehabilitation and magnetic resonance imaging correlates. Spinal Cord 2016; 54:804-808. [PMID: 26927295 DOI: 10.1038/sc.2016.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Kim YM, Kim Y, Oh J, Kim HR, Park JH. Prolonged Motor Weakness With Syringomyelia in Japanese Encephalitis: A Case Study. Ann Rehabil Med 2015; 39:821-5. [PMID: 26605181 PMCID: PMC4654089 DOI: 10.5535/arm.2015.39.5.821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Japanese encephalitis (JE) shows characteristic brain lesions, including bilateral thalamus, midbrain, internal capsule, basal ganglia, and occasionally involves an anterior horn cell. We encountered a case of a 44-year-old man who initially presented with encephalitis, which was finally diagnosed as Japanese encephalomyelitis with syringomyelia. The patient showed severe motor weakness followed by delayed recovery of functional motor activities. Cervical magnetic resonance imaging showed syrinx formation at the C5 level suggesting myelitis, and abnormal electromyographic findings were noted. Clinicians should consider the possibility that the spinal cord may be involved; an example would be syringomyelia due to myelitis in a case of JE presenting with severe and prolonged motor weakness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Moon Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Youngkook Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeehae Oh
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hae Rim Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joo Hyun Park
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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Presas-Rodríguez S, Grau-López L, Hervás-García JV, Massuet-Vilamajó A, Ramo-Tello C. Myelitis: Differences between multiple sclerosis and other aetiologies. Neurologia 2015; 31:71-5. [PMID: 26383061 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2015.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Revised: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myelitis can appear as an initial symptom in the context of demyelinating diseases, systemic inflammatory diseases, and infectious diseases. We aim to analyse the differences between myelitis associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) and myelitis resulting from other aetiologies. METHODS Single-centre, retrospective analysis of patients with initial myelitis (2000-2013). Demographic, aetiological, clinical, radiological and prognostic variables were analysed and compared between patients with myelitis from MS and those with myelitis due to other aetiologies. RESULTS We included 91 patients; mean follow-up was 7 years. Diagnoses were as follows: MS 57 (63%), idiopathic transverse myelitis 22 (24%), associated systemic diseases 6 (7%), and other diagnoses (6%). Myelitis due to MS was associated with younger age of onset (35 ± 11 vs. 41 ± 13; P = .02), more pronounced sphincter involvement (40.4 vs. 27.3%; P=.05), greater multifocal involvement in spinal MRI (77.2 vs. 26.5%; P=.001), shorter lesion extension (2.4 vs. 1.4 vertebral segments; P=.001), cervical location (82.5 vs. 64.7%; P=.05) and posterior location (89.5 vs. 41.2%; P=.001). Myelitis due to other aetiologies more frequently showed anterior location (47.1 vs. 24.6%; P=.02), and central cord involvement (47.1 vs. 14.1%; P=.001), with better recovery at one year of follow up (EDSS 2.0 vs. 1.5; P=.01). Multivariate analysis showed that multifocal spinal cord involvement (OR 9.38, 95% CI: 2.04-43.1) and posterior cord involvement (OR 2.16, 95% CI: 2.04-2.67) were independently associated with the diagnosis of MS. CONCLUSIONS A high percentage of patients with an initial myelitis event will be diagnosed with MS. The presence of multifocal and posterior spinal cord lesions was significantly associated with the diagnosis of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Presas-Rodríguez
- Servicio de Neurología, Departamento de Neurociencias, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona (Barcelona), España.
| | - L Grau-López
- Servicio de Neurología, Departamento de Neurociencias, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona (Barcelona), España
| | - J V Hervás-García
- Servicio de Neurología, Departamento de Neurociencias, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona (Barcelona), España
| | - A Massuet-Vilamajó
- Institut de Diagnòstic per la Imatge, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona (Barcelona), España
| | - C Ramo-Tello
- Servicio de Neurología, Departamento de Neurociencias, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona (Barcelona), España
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Palasis S, Hayes LL. Acquired pathology of the pediatric spine and spinal cord. Pediatr Radiol 2015; 45 Suppl 3:S420-32. [PMID: 26346148 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-015-3328-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2014] [Revised: 12/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric spine pathology poses a diagnostic challenge for radiologists. Acquired spine pathology often yields nonspecific signs and symptoms in children, especially in the younger age groups, and diagnostic delay can carry significant morbidity. This review is focused on some of the more common diagnostic dilemmas we face when attempting to evaluate and diagnose acquired pediatric spine anomalies in daily practice. An understanding of some of the key differentiating features of these disease processes in conjunction with pertinent history, physical exam, and advanced imaging techniques can indicate the correct diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Palasis
- Department of Radiology at Scottish Rite, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 1001 Johnson Ferry Road, Atlanta, GA, 30342, USA,
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Differential Diagnosis of Acute Myelopathies: An Update. Clin Neuroradiol 2015; 25 Suppl 2:183-7. [PMID: 26031429 DOI: 10.1007/s00062-015-0401-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Appropriate description may lead to adequate diagnostic and therapeutic measures, and therefore, a simple scheme to categorize and term the imaging findings of acute myelopathy is suggested based on current literature. Assigning imaging findings to five groups, that is (a) "segmental with rash," (b) "poliolike," (c) "granulomatous-nodular," (d) "longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis," (e) "short-segment ovoid or peripherally located," provides a rationale to lessen differential diagnoses. The key for understanding, proper description and differential diagnosis is the correlation of two time points: When did the first symptoms appear and when did imaging take place? Early infarction within the first 24 h will show neither swelling nor enhancement.
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Weidauer S, Nichtweiß M, Hattingen E, Berkefeld J. Spinal cord ischemia: aetiology, clinical syndromes and imaging features. Neuroradiology 2014; 57:241-57. [PMID: 25398656 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-014-1464-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to analyse MR imaging features and lesion patterns as defined by compromised vascular territories, correlating them to different clinical syndromes and aetiological aspects. METHODS In a 19.8-year period, clinical records and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of 55 consecutive patients suffering from spinal cord ischemia were evaluated. RESULTS Aetiologies of infarcts were arteriosclerosis of the aorta and vertebral arteries (23.6%), aortic surgery or interventional aneurysm repair (11%) and aortic and vertebral artery dissection (11%), and in 23.6%, aetiology remained unclear. Infarcts occurred in 38.2% at the cervical and thoracic level, respectively, and 49% of patients suffered from centromedullar syndrome caused by anterior spinal artery ischemia. MRI disclosed hyperintense pencil-like lesion pattern on T2WI in 98.2%, cord swelling in 40%, enhancement on post-contrast T1WI in 42.9% and always hyperintense signal on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) when acquired. CONCLUSION The most common clinical feature in spinal cord ischemia is a centromedullar syndrome, and in contrast to anterior spinal artery ischemia, infarcts in the posterior spinal artery territory are rare. The exclusively cervical location of the spinal sulcal artery syndrome seems to be a likely consequence of anterior spinal artery duplication which is observed preferentially here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Weidauer
- Department of Neurology, Sankt Katharinen Hospital, Teaching Hospital of the Goethe - University, Frankfurt / Main, Seckbacher Landstraße 65, D 60389, Frankfurt / Main, Germany,
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