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Optic neuropathy associated with chronic lymphomatous meningitis
J R Coppeto1, M L Monteiro, D B Cannarozzi
1St. Mary's Hospital, Waterbury, Connecticut.
Journal of Clinical Neuro-Ophthalmology
|March 1, 1988
Summary
A rare case of paranasal sinus lymphoma presented with optic neuritis and chronic meningitis. The lymphoma was later discovered in the bone marrow, highlighting a paraneoplastic syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Chronic lymphocytic meningitis can present with elevated intracranial pressure and headache.
- Paranasal sinus lymphoma is a rare malignancy that can affect the central nervous system.
- Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve, potentially causing visual disturbances.
Observation:
- A patient with a history of paranasal sinus lymphoma developed unilateral optic neuritis.
- Meningeal symptoms were managed with analgesics and corticosteroids for over two years.
- The optic neuritis prompted further investigation due to visual changes.
Findings:
- The patient's optic neuritis was a manifestation of a paraneoplastic syndrome.
- Lymphoma was ultimately identified in the bone marrow.
- The case highlights the potential for delayed diagnosis of systemic malignancy.
Implications:
- Optic neuritis can be an early sign of underlying malignancy, even with controlled meningeal symptoms.
- Systemic evaluation is crucial in patients with unexplained neurological or visual deficits.
- Understanding paraneoplastic syndromes aids in early cancer detection and management.