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Published on: October 17, 2018
Multiple bilateral non-hemorrhagic cerebral infarctions associated with microscopic polyangiitis
1Department of Neurology, Myongji Hospital, Kwangdong University College of Medicine, 697-24, Hwajung Dukyang, Goyang, Gyeonggi 412-270, Republic of Korea. neurodasan@paran.com
Abstract:
Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a systemic disorder that affects small vessels, such as arterioles, venules or capillaries. Cerebrovascular disease has been rarely reported in connection with MPA; this complication is usually associated with fatal hemorrhage or hemorrhagic conversion. We report a case of MPA with multiple bilateral non-hemorrhagic cerebral infarctions in a 66-year-old woman who was undergoing steroid pulse therapy. The diagnosis of MPA was based on the presence of painful mononeuritis multiplex, pulmonary fibrosis, and increased myeloperoxidase activity and on the biopsy of the sural nerve.
Insights
Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) rarely causes cerebrovascular issues. This case highlights MPA presenting with multiple non-hemorrhagic cerebral infarctions during steroid pulse therapy.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a systemic small vessel vasculitis.
- Cerebrovascular disease is an uncommon complication of MPA, typically presenting as hemorrhage.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old woman with diagnosed MPA developed multiple bilateral non-hemorrhagic cerebral infarctions.
- The patient was undergoing steroid pulse therapy for MPA.
Findings:
- The MPA diagnosis was confirmed by painful mononeuritis multiplex, pulmonary fibrosis, elevated myeloperoxidase, and sural nerve biopsy.
- This case demonstrates a rare presentation of MPA with ischemic stroke.
Implications:
- This case expands the spectrum of neurological complications associated with microscopic polyangiitis.
- Highlights the importance of considering ischemic cerebrovascular events in MPA patients, even during treatment.
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