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A child with transient neurologic deficits and headache associated with cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis
1Division of Child Neurology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania 15213, USA.
Insights
A pediatric case presented with recurrent neurological symptoms and cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities. The condition resolved spontaneously, indicating a benign, monophasic illness with an unknown cause.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Neuroimmunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Recurrent neurological symptoms in children can be challenging to diagnose.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is crucial for evaluating central nervous system disorders.
- Differentiating benign conditions from serious pathologies is essential for appropriate management.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old girl experienced recurrent episodes of severe headache, altered consciousness, and transient neurological deficits over two months.
- Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed lymphocytic pleocytosis and elevated protein levels.
- Comprehensive microbiological workup and neuroimaging studies yielded negative results.
Findings:
- CSF parameters normalized within three months.
- The patient remained symptom-free for 15 months post-initial evaluation.
- The clinical presentation suggests a benign, self-limiting neurological condition.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare, benign neurological syndrome in a pediatric patient.
- The etiology remains undetermined, warranting further research into potential triggers or mechanisms.
- Such cases underscore the importance of thorough investigation and long-term follow-up in pediatric neurology.
Abstract:
We report a case of a 10-year-old girl who had several episodes of severe headache, altered consciousness, and temporary neurologic signs and symptoms within a 2-month period. Cerebrospinal fluid examination showed lymphocytic pleocytosis and increased protein. Extensive microbiologic investigation and neuroimaging studies were negative. Cerebrospinal fluid findings were normalized within a 3-month period, and the patient has not had further episodes through 15 months of follow-up. This combination of symptoms represents a benign, monophasic illness without further progression. The etiology, however, remains unclear.
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