[About a Case of Lewis-Sumner Syndrome Observed in Niger]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Clinical Neuroscience
• Rare Diseases

Background:

• Lewis-Sumner syndrome (LSS) is a rare, immune-mediated peripheral neuropathy.
• It is characterized by asymmetric, predominantly upper limb, sensory and motor deficits.
• Diagnosis often relies on clinical presentation and electrophysiological findings.

Observation:

• A 53-year-old man in Niger presented with paresthesia following a flu-like illness.
• Symptoms rapidly progressed to asymmetric sensitivomotor involvement of all four limbs, favoring upper limbs.
• Electrophysiology showed motor conduction blocks and reduced sensory amplitudes/velocities.

Findings:

• Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed elevated protein without signs of meningitis.
• Other systemic and infectious causes were excluded.
• Clinical and electrophysiological data confirmed the diagnosis of Lewis-Sumner syndrome.

Implications:

• This report highlights the first documented case of Lewis-Sumner syndrome in Niger.
• Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy demonstrated a positive clinical outcome.
• Increased awareness of LSS in diverse geographical settings is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.