Self-remitting and reversible parkinsonism associated with neuro-Sweet disease

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroimmunology
• Rare Diseases

Background:

• Neuro-Sweet disease (NSD) is a rare autoimmune disorder.
• Parkinsonism is a neurological condition characterized by tremors, rigidity, and slow movement.
• The association between NSD and parkinsonism is not well-established.

Observation:

• A 72-year-old man presented with subacute onset parkinsonism.
• Brain MRI revealed inflammation in the basal ganglia and amygdalae.
• Symptoms initially improved spontaneously but recurred.

Findings:

• The patient's parkinsonism was attributed to neuro-Sweet disease (NSD).
• Corticosteroid treatment led to symptom improvement upon recurrence.
• Human leukocyte antigen typing supported the NSD diagnosis.
• This case represents the first report of NSD presenting with self-remitting and reversible parkinsonism.

Implications:

• This case expands the known clinical spectrum of neuro-Sweet disease.
• It suggests that NSD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of reversible parkinsonism.
• The findings underscore the potential efficacy of immunomodulatory treatments in NSD-associated neurological deficits.