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Liang N, Li LM, Fan YM. Answer to June 2024 Photo Quiz. J Clin Microbiol 2024; 62:e0125723. [PMID: 38864634 PMCID: PMC11237495 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01257-23] [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: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Read the full article for the answer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni Liang
- Department of Dermatology, Zhongshan City People's Hospital, Zhongshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Liang-Ming Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhongshan City People's Hospital, Zhongshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi-Ming Fan
- Dermatology, Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Center, the First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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2
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Gao YS, Li Q, Zhou H, Zhang ZQ, Feng H, Liu GF, Shen Y. Enhancing clinical awareness: retrospective analysis of neurosyphilis cases and diagnostic predictors for early recognition and treatment. Neurol Sci 2024; 45:2825-2833. [PMID: 38177969 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-07285-8] [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: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This is a retrospective analysis of clinical data from individuals diagnosed with neurosyphilis, aiming to enhance healthcare professionals' understanding of the disease and expedite early diagnosis and intervention. METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical records of 50 patients who received a diagnosis of symptomatic neurosyphilis and were admitted to the Neurology Department during the period spanning January 2012 to December 2022. RESULTS Clinical manifestations encompassed diverse phenotypes, with syphilitic meningitis accounting for 16% of cases, characterized by symptoms such as headache, blepharoptosis, paralysis, blurred vision, and tinnitus. Meningovascular syphilis presented in 36% of cases, exhibiting episodic loss of consciousness, limb numbness, and limb convulsion. Paralytic dementia manifested in 36% of cases, featuring symptoms such as memory loss, sluggish response, and slow movement. Tabes dorsalis was observed in 12% of cases, presenting with weakness, numbness, and staggering. Routine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis indicated abnormal white blood cell counts in 60% of patients, while biochemical testing revealed abnormal protein content in 52% of patients. Notably, statistically significant differences were observed between patients with interstitial and parenchymatous neurosyphilis (Z = 2.023, P = 0.044) in terms of CSF protein content. Electroencephalogram (EEG) results were abnormal in six patients, and imaging studies unveiled diverse findings in 46 patients. CONCLUSION The study highlights the importance of neurological and/or ocular symptoms in diagnosing symptomatic neurosyphilis. Individuals with hypomnesia should be closely monitored for potential neurosyphilis. Integrating clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, EEG, and imaging can reduce misdiagnosis. This comprehensive approach shows promise in improving early identification and management of neurosyphilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Shu Gao
- Department of Dermatology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 of Nansihuanxilu Street, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Dermatology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 of Nansihuanxilu Street, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China.
| | - Heng Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Zai-Qiang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Hua Feng
- Department of Dermatology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, No. 119 of Nansihuanxilu Street, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Gai-Fen Liu
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Yuan Shen
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing, 100070, China
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Aytulun A, Grannemann LS, MacKenzie CR, Dimitrakopoulos A, Pessanha‐Schlegel F, Kamp D, Schilbach L. Case report-Depression with psychotic features as an atypical presentation of neurosyphilis. Clin Case Rep 2024; 12:e8836. [PMID: 38689691 PMCID: PMC11059960 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.8836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Recurrent depression with psychotic features is an atypical presentation of neurosyphilis. This case emphasizes the polymorphic clinical presentation of neurosyphilis and how it mimics affective disorders with psychotic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aykut Aytulun
- Department of General Psychiatry 2, Medical Faculty, LVR‐Klinikum DüsseldorfHeinrich‐Heine University DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Laura Sophie Grannemann
- Department of General Psychiatry 2, Medical Faculty, LVR‐Klinikum DüsseldorfHeinrich‐Heine University DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Colin R. MacKenzie
- Department of MicrobiologyHeinrich‐Heine‐University DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Alexandros Dimitrakopoulos
- Department of General Psychiatry 2, Medical Faculty, LVR‐Klinikum DüsseldorfHeinrich‐Heine University DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Francesca Pessanha‐Schlegel
- Department of General Psychiatry 2, Medical Faculty, LVR‐Klinikum DüsseldorfHeinrich‐Heine University DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Daniel Kamp
- Department of General Psychiatry 2, Medical Faculty, LVR‐Klinikum DüsseldorfHeinrich‐Heine University DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
| | - Leonhard Schilbach
- Department of General Psychiatry 2, Medical Faculty, LVR‐Klinikum DüsseldorfHeinrich‐Heine University DüsseldorfDüsseldorfGermany
- Medical FacultyLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversitätMunichGermany
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de Almeida SM, Tresoldi Neto J, Rocha A, Medeiros A, Gonçalves D, Guimarães F. Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers of Symptomatic Neurosyphilis in People With HIV Compared with Uninfected Individuals. J Neurovirol 2024; 30:146-164. [PMID: 38472642 DOI: 10.1007/s13365-024-01199-7] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
We evaluated the diagnostic clinical performance characteristics (DCPC) of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) total protein (TP), white blood cell count (WBC), and lactate (LA) with different cutoff points as adjunct biomarkers of confirmed or presumptive symptomatic neurosyphilis (NS) and the impact of HIV infection. From 5,640 participants who underwent lumbar punctures, 236 participants were included, and classified as either people with HIV (PWH) or people without HIV (PWoH) according to the CDC criteria for confirmed NS (n = 42), presumptive NS (n = 74), systemic syphilis (SS) (n = 38), serological diagnosis of syphilis (n = 18), PWH without SS and NS (n = 10), and negative control (n = 72). In PWoH, for presumptive NS, the combination of CSF TP > 45 mg/dL and/or WBC > 5.0 cells/mm3 is valuable for screening, whereas in PWH, it is not recommended for either screening or case-finding NS, however the DCPC were better in the suppressed group. In PWoH, the value of CSF TP > 45 mg/dL is adequate for both screening and confirmation of presumptive NS, subject to prevalence. For WBC count > 20 cell/mm3, the positive predictive value (PPV) of the test is almost perfect, suggesting a confirmatory test. In PWH, CSF TP is an inadequate marker of NS. The WBC count, with cutoffs of > 10 or > 20 cells/mm3, was moderately applicable for screening.As conclusions: CSF WBC count and TP showed distinct DCPC in confirmed or presumptive NS, better in the former. These biomarkers could be included for presumptive NS diagnosis. DCPC of these biomarkers for the diagnosis of NS is greatly affected by HIV co-infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sérgio Monteiro de Almeida
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil.
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - José Tresoldi Neto
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Amanda Rocha
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Ana Medeiros
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Debora Gonçalves
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Fausto Guimarães
- Virology Section, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Setor Análises Clínicas Rua Padre Camargo, Curitiba, PR, 80060-240, Brazil
- Neuroinfection Outclinic, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal Do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
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Wu S, Ye F, Wang Y, Li D. Neurosyphilis: insights into its pathogenesis, susceptibility, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Front Neurol 2024; 14:1340321. [PMID: 38274871 PMCID: PMC10808744 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1340321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Invasion of the central nervous system by Treponema pallidum can occur at any stage of syphilis. In the event that T. pallidum is not cleared promptly, certain individuals may experience progression to neurosyphilis, which manifests as cognitive and behavioral abnormalities, limb paralysis, and potentially fatal outcomes. Early identification or prevention of neurosyphilis is therefore crucial. The aim of this paper is to conduct a critical and narrative review of the latest information focusing exclusively to the pathogenesis and clinical management of neurosyphilis. Methodology To compile this review, we have conducted electronic literature searches from the PubMed database relating to neurosyphilis. Priority was given to studies published from the past 10 years (from 2013 to 2023) and other studies if they were of significant importance (from 1985 to 2012), including whole genome sequencing results, cell structure of T. pallidum, history of genotyping, and other related topics. These studies are classic or reflect a developmental process. Results Neurosyphilis has garnered global attention, yet susceptibility to and the pathogenesis of this condition remain under investigation. Cerebrospinal fluid examination plays an important role in the diagnosis of neurosyphilis, but lacks the gold standard. Intravenous aqueous crystalline penicillin G continues to be the recommended therapeutic approach for neurosyphilis. Considering its sustained prominence, it is imperative to develop novel public health tactics in order to manage the resurgence of neurosyphilis. Conclusion This review gives an updated narrative description of neurosyphilis with special emphasis on its pathogenesis, susceptibility, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dongdong Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Erhart DK, Klose V, Schäper T, Tumani H, Senel M. CXCL13 in Cerebrospinal Fluid: Clinical Value in a Large Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:425. [PMID: 38203597 PMCID: PMC10779058 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010425] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
C-X-C-motif chemokine ligand 13 (CXCL13) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is increasingly used in clinical routines, although its diagnostic specificity and divergent cut-off values have been defined so far mainly for neuroborreliosis. Our aim was to evaluate the value of CSF-CXCL13 as a diagnostic and treatment response marker and its role as an activity marker in a larger disease spectrum, including neuroborreliosis and other neuroinflammatory and malignant CNS-disorders. Patients who received a diagnostic lumbar puncture (LP) (n = 1234) between July 2009 and January 2023 were included in our retrospective cross-sectional study. The diagnostic performance of CSF-CXCL13 for acute neuroborreliosis was highest at a cut-off of 428.92 pg/mL (sensitivity: 92.1%; specificity: 96.5%). In addition, CXCL13 levels in CSF were significantly elevated in multiple sclerosis with clinical (p = 0.001) and radiographic disease activity (p < 0.001). The clinical utility of CSF-CXCL13 appears to be multifaceted. CSF-CXCL13 is significantly elevated in patients with neuroborreliosis and shows a rapid and sharp decline with antibiotic therapy, but it is not specific for this disease and is also highly elevated in less common subacute neuroinfectious diseases, such as neurosyphilis and cryptococcal meningitis or in primary/secondary B-cell lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Katharina Erhart
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Ulm, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (D.K.E.); (T.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Veronika Klose
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)—Ulm, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081 Ulm, Germany;
| | - Tatjana Schäper
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Ulm, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (D.K.E.); (T.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Hayrettin Tumani
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Ulm, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (D.K.E.); (T.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Makbule Senel
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Ulm, Oberer Eselsberg 45, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (D.K.E.); (T.S.); (M.S.)
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Liang Y, Li B, Ou D, Li G, Zeng H. Neurosyphilis with oral‑facial‑lingual dyskinesia: A case report. Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:520. [PMID: 37854505 PMCID: PMC10580249 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12219] [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: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study describes the case of a 52-year-old male patient who presented with subacute onset dysarthria and oral-facial-lingual dyskinesia, with normal blood glucose and acanthocyte levels, and no history of drug use. The patient tested negative for autoimmune encephalitis-related antibodies and paraneoplastic-related antibodies. The level of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein was slightly elevated, and the Treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay and rapid plasma reagin test were positive in both serum and CSF samples. After 1 month of treatment with doxycycline, the patient's oral-facial-lingual dyskinesia was significantly improved, suggesting the diagnosis of neurosyphilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingfang Liang
- Department of Comprehensive Internal Medicine, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi 530022, P.R. China
| | - Bixun Li
- Department of Comprehensive Internal Medicine, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi 530022, P.R. China
| | - Danyan Ou
- Department of Comprehensive Internal Medicine, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi 530022, P.R. China
| | - Guoliang Li
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Hao Zeng
- Department of Spine and Osteopathy Surgery, Guangxi Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi 530022, P.R. China
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Wellinghausen N, Götz A, Rangel Vivar TE. Comparison of Treponema-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) index with Treponema pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) index for detection of intrathecal Treponema-specific antibody synthesis for serological diagnosis of neurosyphilis. GMS INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 11:Doc01. [PMID: 37868301 PMCID: PMC10585769 DOI: 10.3205/id000081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The determination of Treponema-specific intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis with the Treponema pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) index is a well-established method recommended in German guidelines for the diagnosis of neurosyphilis. However, the TPPA test is no longer available. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the determination of a Treponema-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) index can substitute the TPPA index. Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from patients with confirmed (n=6) and probable (n=3) neurosyphilis as well as patients with adequately treated syphilis without neurosyphilis (n=4) were investigated. In addition to index calculation further CSF parameters were determined. The results of the Treponema IgG and the TPPA index were consistent in all patients with confirmed neurosyphilis and non-neurosyphilis patients. In two patients with probable neurosyphilis the IgG index appeared more plausible than the TPPA index when taking into account all available laboratory and clinical data of the patients. In conclusion, the determination of Treponema-specific intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis with the IgG index appears to be a suitable alternative to the TPPA index.
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Ding D, Gao J, Zhang W, Xu D. The Diagnostic Performance of Laboratory Tests of Neurosyphilis: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. Eur Neurol 2023; 86:418-429. [PMID: 37549649 DOI: 10.1159/000531341] [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: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The gold standard for diagnosing neurosyphilis (NS) is currently unavailable; various laboratory parameters in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood can assist in the diagnosis. METHODS PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched. Studies utilizing laboratory tests to assist in the diagnosis of NS were included. The pooled indicators for diagnostic performance and their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. We used the superiority index to test the superiority of a diagnostic test. RESULTS Eleven citations were included in the study. Albumin quotient, CSF-TPHA, CSF-EIA, CSF-LDH, CSF-WBC, CSF-CXCL13, FTA-ABS, CSF-PCR, RPR, CSF-TPPA, TRUST, and CSF-venereal diseases research laboratory (VDRL) were assessed in the studies included. The pooled estimates of sensitivity, specificity, AUC of SROC and their respective 95% CIs for CSF-TPPA and CSF-VDRL were 0.97 (0.17, 1.00), 0.84 (0.62, 0.95), 0.93 (0.91, 0.95) and 0.74 (0.59, 0.85), 0.99 (0.93, 1.00), 0.94 (0.91, 0.96), respectively. CSF-TPHA demonstrated the highest relative sensitivity. CSF-VDRL manifested the highest specificity. CSF-TPHA, TRUST, CSF-VDRL, CSF-EIA, and RPR ranked in the top five laboratory tests with superiority index. CONCLUSION CSF-TPHA, TRUST, CSF-VDRL, CSF-EIA, and RPR indicate acceptable performance in detecting NS compared to other modalities. Comprehensive diagnostic strategies still play a significant role in the diagnosis of NS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duyu Ding
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- National Center for Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Junhua Gao
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- National Center for Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurology, Center for Cognitive Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Center for Cognitive Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Center of Parkinson's Disease, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory on Parkinson Disease, Beijing, China
| | - Dongmei Xu
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- National Center for Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Djukic M, Eiffert H, Lange P, Giotaki I, Seele J, Nau R. Serological testing for syphilis in the differential diagnosis of cognitive decline and polyneuropathy in geriatric patients. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:274. [PMID: 37147588 PMCID: PMC10161663 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-03981-4] [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: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the 19th century, neurosyphilis was the most frequent cause of dementia in Western Europe. Now dementia caused by syphilis has become rare in Germany. We studied whether routine testing of patients with cognitive abnormalities or neuropathy for antibodies against Treponema pallidum has therapeutic consequences in geriatric patients. METHODS A Treponema pallidum electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (TP-ECLIA) is routinely performed in all in-patients treated at our institution with cognitve decline or neuropathy and no or insufficient previous diagnostic workup. Patients with a positive TP-ECLIA treated from October 2015 to January 2022 (76 months) were retrospectively evaluated. In cases of positive TP-ECLIA, further specific laboratory investigations were performed to assess whether antibiotic therapy was indicated. RESULTS In 42 of 4116 patients (1.0%), TP-ECLIA detected antibodies directed against Treponema in serum. Specifity of these antibodies was ensured by immunoblot in 22 patients (11 × positiv, 11 × borderline values). Treponema-specific IgM was detectable in the serum of one patient, in 3 patients the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test, a modified Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test (VDRL), in serum was positiv. CSF analysis was performed in 10 patients. One patient had CSF pleocytosis. In 2 other patients, the Treponema-specific IgG antibody index was elevated. 5 patients received antibiotic therapy (4 × ceftriaxone 2 g/d i.v., 1 × doxycycline 300 mg/d p.o.). CONCLUSION In approx. 1‰ of patients with previously undiagnosed or not sufficiently diagnosed cognitive decline or neuropathy, the diagnostic workup for active syphilis resulted in a course of antibiotic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Djukic
- Institute of Neuropathology, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Geriatrics, Protestant Hospital Göttingen-Weende, An der Lutter 24, Göttingen, 37075, Germany
| | - Helmut Eiffert
- Institute of Neuropathology, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Amedes MVZ for Laboratory Medicine, Medical Microbiology and Infectiology, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Peter Lange
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ioanna Giotaki
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jana Seele
- Institute of Neuropathology, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Geriatrics, Protestant Hospital Göttingen-Weende, An der Lutter 24, Göttingen, 37075, Germany
| | - Roland Nau
- Institute of Neuropathology, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
- Department of Geriatrics, Protestant Hospital Göttingen-Weende, An der Lutter 24, Göttingen, 37075, Germany.
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Henriques BL, Vidal JE, Gamba C, Avelino-Silva VI. Lumbar puncture for neurosyphilis investigation in asymptomatic patients with HIV-syphilis coinfection: a cross-sectional study among infectious disease specialists. SAO PAULO MED J 2023; 141:20-29. [PMID: 36043668 PMCID: PMC9808987 DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2021.0744.r1.03032022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syphilis is a major public health issue worldwide. In people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV), there are higher incidences of both syphilis and neurosyphilis. The criteria for referring PLHIV with syphilis for lumbar puncture is controversial, and the diagnosis of neurosyphilis is challenging. OBJECTIVE To describe the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of infectious disease specialists and residents in the context of care for asymptomatic HIV-syphilis coinfection using close-ended questions and case vignettes. DESIGN AND SETTING Cross-sectional study conducted in three public health institutions in São Paulo (SP), Brazil. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we invited infectious disease specialists and residents at three academic healthcare institutions to answer a self-completion questionnaire available online or in paper form. RESULTS Of 98 participants, only 23.5% provided answers that were in line with the current Brazilian recommendation. Most participants believed that the criteria for lumbar puncture should be extended for people living with HIV with low CD4+ cell counts (52.0%); in addition, participants also believed that late latent syphilis (29.6%) and Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) titers ≥ 1:32 (22.4%) should be conditions for lumbar puncture in PLHIV with no neurologic symptoms. CONCLUSION This study highlights heterogeneities in the clinical management of HIV-syphilis coinfection. Most infectious disease specialists still consider syphilis stage, VDRL titers and CD4+ cell counts as important parameters when deciding which patients need lumbar puncture for investigating neurosyphilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Labella Henriques
- MD. Doctoral Student, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - José Ernesto Vidal
- MD. PhD. Infectious Disease Specialist, Department of Neurology, Instituto de Infectologia Emilio Ribas, São Paulo (SP), Brazil; Infectious Disease Specialist, Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Cristiano Gamba
- MD. Infectious Disease Specialist, Centro de Referência e Treinamento DST AIDS (CRT), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Vivian Iida Avelino-Silva
- MD, PhD. Infectious Disease Specialist, Department of Infectious Disease, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
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Ke W, Tso LS, Li D. Editorial: Neurosyphilis: epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, immunology and treatment. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1191113. [PMID: 37153093 PMCID: PMC10155196 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1191113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wujian Ke
- Department of Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Dermatology Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lai Sze Tso
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Gustavus Adolphus College, Saint Peter, MN, United States
| | - Dongdong Li
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Dongdong Li
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13
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Gao ZX, Gou Y, Liu XQ, Peng LW. Advances in laboratory diagnostic methods for cerebrospinal fluid testing for neurosyphilis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1030480. [PMID: 36452956 PMCID: PMC9703065 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1030480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurosyphilis is a chronic infectious disease caused by the invasion of Treponema pallidum into the central nervous system. In recent years, with the increase in the latent syphilis infection rate, the incidence of neurosyphilis has gradually increased, the typical symptoms of neurosyphilis have decreased, atypical manifestations have increased, and the clinical manifestations have become increasingly diverse. Cerebrospinal fluid testing plays an important role in the diagnosis of neurosyphilis. In recent years, there have been many advances in cerebrospinal fluid testing. This review focuses on the current and potential laboratory indicators of neurosyphilis in cerebrospinal fluid, aiming to provide a reference for clinical application and ideas for future experimental research of neurosyphilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Xiang Gao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Gou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Lei-Wen Peng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
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14
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Huang X, Ying S, Luo L, Li L, Li D, Xie Y. Intrathecal immunoglobin synthesis and its role in patients with neurosyphilis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1008595. [PMID: 36419997 PMCID: PMC9677103 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1008595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intrathecal protein synthesis (ITS) occurs in various central nervous system disorders, but few quantitative studies have focused on ITS for neurosyphilis (NS) in southwestern China. We made a study to quantitatively assess the ITS in patients with NS and to investigate the association between ITS and the stages of NS. Methods CSF-serum specimen pairs from 142 patients (66 NS and 76 non-NS/syphilis) were collected for routine CSF and serum tests. The NS group was divided into slight and severe subgroups according to the NS stages. Three formulas for the quantitative determination of the intrathecal synthesis were calculated to characterize the specimens, including the Ig index (QIg/Qalb), Ig extended index (Ig_EI), and intrathecally synthesized fraction (IgIF) using the hyperbolic function. The role of QTPPA/QIgG as an antibody index (AI = Q specific Ig/QIgG) was also explored. Results Sero_TRUST titres (1:16, 1:1-1:256), sero_TPPA titres (1:163840, 1:1280-1:1310720), total protein (MTP), and CSF_Igs (p < 0.05) were found to be significantly elevated in the NS group. Intrathecal Ig synthesis can be identified using all three formulas in the NS group. The pattern of Ig intrathecal synthesis was IgIF-G (48.62%) > IgIF-A = IgIF-M (p < 0.05), with the dominant intrathecal fraction being IgG (median, 48.62%), which was also verified by QIgG> Qalb> QIgM = QIgA. In the slight NS group, the intrathecal fractions of IgM (>0 in 4 out of 20 cases) and IgG (>0 in 16 out of 20) were lower than the intrathecal fractions of IgM (>0 in 19 out of 35 cases) and IgG (>0 in 33 out of 38) in the severe group (p < 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) of the CSF_TPPA antibody index was 0.867 (0.792, 0.922), with an optimal cutoff point of 0.81, providing a sensitivity of 88.91% and specificity of 84.62%. Conclusion Although the intrathecal synthesis pattern is IgG dominant in patients with NS, brain-derived IgM and IgA can also be found. Moreover, intrathecal IgM and IgG were associated with a parenchymatous type of neurosyphilis. Syphilis-specific antibodies are a new potential tool for NS diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiyue Huang
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shanshan Ying
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Tianfu Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lan Luo
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lixin Li
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dongdong Li
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Dongdong Li
| | - Yi Xie
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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15
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Takahashi Y, Morimoto N, Morimoto M, Mori S, Takahashi Y, Ichikawa T, Yokota K, Yamashita T. Cerebral syphilitic gumma mimicking a brain tumor that enlarged temporarily after commencing antibiotic treatment. eNeurologicalSci 2022; 29:100436. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ensci.2022.100436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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16
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Xiao Y, Li W, Li QL, Xu QY, Yang Y, Yang TC, Liu LL, Gu WM. Which Is the Optimum Antigen Concentration for the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory Test of Cerebrospinal Fluid for Neurosyphilis Diagnosis: 10 or 17 μL? Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:877186. [PMID: 35572962 PMCID: PMC9095981 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.877186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The manufacturer's instructions for the venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) antigen test for diagnosing neurosyphilis describe testing of serum samples and do not include procedures for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing. This study compared the CSF-VDRL test with 10 μL of antigen (CSF-VDRL-10) according to the American Public Health Association to the CSF-VDRL test with 17 μL of antigen (CSF-VDRL-17) according to the VDRL serum procedure. A total of 121 neurosyphilis patients and 86 syphilis/non-neurosyphilis patients were included. The sensitivities of the CSF-VDRL-10 and CSF-VDRL-17 tests were comparable for neurosyphilis diagnosis. The positive rate of the CSF-VDRL-17 test was higher than that of the CSF-VDRL-10 test. In all, 78.3% of the quantitative CSF-VDRL-17 results were consistent with those of the CSF-VDRL-10 test, 18.4% exhibited one-titer higher results than those of the CSF-VDRL-10 test, and 3.4% had positive CSF-VDRL-17 results but negative CSF-VDRL-10 results. The CSF-VDRL test with 17 μL of antigen was more sensitive, and it is worth performing longitudinal studies to understand its practical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Xiao
- Center of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Department of Hospital Infection Management, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Wei Li
- Center of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Institute of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Qiu-Ling Li
- Center of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Institute of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Qiu-Yan Xu
- Center of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Institute of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tian-Ci Yang
- Center of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Institute of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Li-Li Liu
- Center of Clinical Laboratory, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Institute of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Wei-Ming Gu
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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17
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Murtza M, Bangash A, Rehman AU, Pervaiz A, Imran A. A case of neurosyphilis with psychosis and hippocampal atrophy. Gen Psychiatr 2022; 35:e100674. [PMID: 35309239 PMCID: PMC8886418 DOI: 10.1136/gpsych-2021-100674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurosyphilis can mimic many neurological and psychiatric disorders. Though several of its varied central nervous system manifestations can be measured clinically and by neuroimaging, they are non-specific. Thus, this mimicry and the relative rarity of the illness in the present era make the diagnosis elusive. However, neurosyphilis is readily treatable; therefore, it must be considered a diagnostic possibility in the routine workup of early-onset dementia. This case report is of a young man presenting with psychosis and cognitive impairment. His brain scan showed hippocampal atrophy, a finding not often seen in neurosyphilis but more common in Alzheimer’s disease. Without awareness of the various causes of mesiotemporal atrophy, clinicians may erroneously diagnose cases such as this one as a neurodegenerative disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Murtza
- General Psychiatry, South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Halifax, UK
| | - Ayesha Bangash
- Old Age Psychiatry, South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Halifax, UK
| | - Ajaz-Ur Rehman
- General Psychiatry, South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Halifax, UK
| | - Amjadali Pervaiz
- General Psychiatry, South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Halifax, UK
| | - Adeena Imran
- General Psychiatry, South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Halifax, UK
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Kissani N, Nafia S, Zahlane S, Louhab N. Neurosyphilis: a series of 178 cases at the 3rd-level hospital of Marrakesh (Morocco). Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2021; 40:2129-2135. [PMID: 33942164 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-021-04253-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Neurosyphilis (NS) is an infection of the central nervous system (CNS), caused by Treponema pallidum. Up to 4-10% of patients with untreated syphilis may develop NS which still constitutes a health challenge. The aim of this study is to analyze epidemiological, clinical, paraclinical, therapeutic, and progression profiles of NS in the south of Morocco. Authors analyzed retrospectively 178 files of patients with neurosyphilis, collected in the Neurology Department of Marrakesh over 25 years from January 1994 to March 2019. In our study, the mean age was 46 years (17-75 years). The number of males was dominant (87.6%). The most common presentation was meningoencephalitis. Four cases were atypical (late congenital syphilis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, neurosyphilis associated with neuro-Behcet's disease, and acute polyradiculoneuropathy). All patients had positive TPHA and VDRL serologies in blood; CSF-TPHA was positive in all patients, and CSF-VDRL was positive in 64.0% of patients. CT scan and brain MRI showed cortical atrophy in the majority of cases. One hundred seventy-seven patients were treated with intravenous injection of aqueous penicillin G. Neurosyphilis is still a significant medical problem in developing countries, and its occurrence in HIV infection is the reason for a growing number of new cases in developed countries. Given the frequent atypical manifestations of the disease, screening for neurosyphilis should be considered in all patients with neurological or psychiatric symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najib Kissani
- Neuroscience Research Laboratory of Marrakech Medical School, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco.
- Neurology Department, University Hospital Mohamed VI, Marrakesh, Morocco.
| | - Sanaa Nafia
- Neurology Department, University Hospital Mohamed VI, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Safaa Zahlane
- Neurology Department, University Hospital Mohamed VI, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Nisserine Louhab
- Neuroscience Research Laboratory of Marrakech Medical School, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
- Neurology Department, University Hospital Mohamed VI, Marrakesh, Morocco
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