Recurrent Transient Ischemic Attacks in a Patient with POEMS Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Hematology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• POEMS syndrome is a rare multisystem disorder.
• Arterial thromboses are an infrequent complication of POEMS syndrome.
• Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are rarely associated with POEMS syndrome.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a rare case of TIAs in a patient with POEMS syndrome.
• To investigate the association between POEMS syndrome and arterial thrombotic events.
• To highlight the need for further research into the pathophysiology.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 47-year-old female patient.
• Clinical presentation with transient ischemic attacks, dysarthria, and hemiparesis.
• Diagnostic workup including blood survey and intracranial vasculature imaging.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with symptoms consistent with TIAs.
• Blood survey revealed thrombocytosis and hyperfibrinogenemia.
• Imaging demonstrated bilateral middle cerebral artery occlusion.

Conclusions:

• This case underscores the potential for arterial thromboses, including TIAs, in POEMS syndrome.
• The pathophysiologic link between POEMS syndrome and arterial thrombosis requires further investigation.
• Understanding this association is crucial for patient management and risk stratification.