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Published on: August 21, 2017
Devic's neuromyelitis optica in an infant case
Deniz Yuksel1, Nesrin Senbil, Deniz Yilmaz
1Department of Pediatric Neurology, Dr Sami Ulus Children's Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey. drdeniz_yuksel@yahoo.com.tr
Insights
Devic's neuromyelitis optica, a severe neurological syndrome, can affect children. This case report details a 23-month-old boy with Devic's neuromyelitis optica who experienced a poor treatment response and significant long-term effects.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Neuroimmunology
Background:
- Devic's neuromyelitis optica (NMO) was historically defined as an acute, severe, monophasic syndrome involving myelitis and optic neuritis.
- While typically presenting in adults around age 40, NMO has been observed in pediatric populations.
- The prognosis for NMO was historically poor with limited treatment options.
Observation:
- This report details a case of Devic's neuromyelitis optica in a 23-month-old boy.
- The child presented with acute myelitis and optic neuritis, consistent with NMO diagnosis.
- The pediatric patient exhibited a poor response to therapeutic interventions.
Findings:
- The pediatric patient diagnosed with Devic's neuromyelitis optica developed severe sequelae.
- This case highlights the potential for severe outcomes in young children with NMO.
- The findings underscore the challenges in managing NMO in the pediatric population.
Implications:
- This case emphasizes the need for early recognition and aggressive management of Devic's neuromyelitis optica in children.
- Further research is warranted to explore effective therapeutic strategies for pediatric NMO.
- Understanding NMO in children is crucial for improving long-term prognoses and reducing disability.
Abstract:
Devic's neuromyelitis optica was orginally described as an acute severe monophasic syndrome characterised by myelitis and optic neuritis. The mean age at onset was reported to be around 40 years, with a wide range. However, Devic's neuromyelitis optica has also been seen in children. Prognosis of the syndrome was poor, and no satisfactory treatment was known. This article reports a 23-month-old boy with acute myelitis and optic neuritis who was diagnosed with Devic's neuromyelitis optica. The response of the patient to therapy was poor, and he developed severe sequelae.
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