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Non paraneoplastic opsoclonus - myoclonus syndrome
Radwan M Zaidan1, Mustafa A Salih, Abdulkader M Daif
1Division of Neurosciences, Department of Medicine, King Khalid University Hospital, PO Box 7805 (38), Riyadh 11472, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Tel. +966 (1) 4671532. Fax. +966 (1) 4672424.
Neurosciences (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)
|May 8, 2013
Summary
Opsoclonus syndrome, a rare neurological disorder, can manifest after viral infections. This study details three cases in the Arabian Peninsula, highlighting varied treatment responses and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome (OMS) is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder.
- It can occur as a paraneoplastic syndrome or post-infectiously, particularly post-viral encephalopathy.
- This report marks the first documented cases of OMS in the Arabian Peninsula.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical features of opsoclonus syndrome as a manifestation of post-viral encephalopathy.
- To report the initial cases of OMS in the Arabian Peninsula.
- To evaluate the outcomes and treatment responses in these patients.
Main Methods:
- Case series analysis of three patients (one child, two adults) presenting with opsoclonus syndrome.
- Clinical evaluation, neurological examinations, and investigations to exclude paraneoplastic etiologies.
- Review of treatment modalities including steroid therapy (long-duration and pulsed) and observation.
Main Results:
- All three patients developed symptoms a few days after a viral-like illness.
- Paraneoplastic syndrome was excluded through comprehensive investigations and follow-up.
- One patient received long-term steroids, another pulsed steroids, and one received no specific treatment.
- Good clinical improvement was observed in two patients; one experienced severe sequelae.
Conclusions:
- Opsoclonus syndrome can be a manifestation of post-viral encephalopathy.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- The findings contribute to understanding OMS in the Arabian Peninsula and inform potential treatment strategies.
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