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[Diffuse lower motor neuron disease in a carcinomatous meningitis]
1Fédération de Neurologie, CHU Gabriel Montpied, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France. ftaithe@chu-clermontferrand.fr
Revue Neurologique
|October 10, 2006
Summary
Carcinomatous meningitis, a complication in 4-15% of solid cancers, can present subtly. This case highlights diffuse lower motor neuron disease as an initial symptom of neoplastic meningitis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Neuro-oncology
Background:
- Carcinomatous meningitis affects 4-15% of solid cancer patients, often with a poor prognosis.
- Typical symptoms include cerebral signs, cranial nerve deficits, and medullary or radicular pain.
- Neoplastic meningitis diagnosis relies on MRI and lumbar puncture.
Observation:
- A 58-year-old woman with a history of breast cancer presented with acute paraparesis and isolated left arm motor deficit.
- These symptoms represented the initial presentation of carcinomatous meningitis.
Findings:
- Diagnosis relies on spinal MRI and cerebrospinal fluid analysis.
- Clinical presentation can be limited to diffuse lower motor neuron disease.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering carcinomatous meningitis in cancer patients with atypical neurological presentations.
- Emphasizes that lower motor neuron signs alone can indicate neoplastic meningitis, necessitating prompt diagnostic workup.
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