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[Pathologic spontaneous activity in a foramen magnum meningioma]
Der Nervenarzt
|July 1, 1986
Summary
A patient with tetraplegia showed muscle denervation activity due to a central nervous system lesion. Surgical removal of a brainstem tumor resolved the abnormal muscle activity, highlighting the importance of considering central causes for such findings.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurophysiology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Electromyography (EMG) typically detects denervation activity in peripheral nerve lesions.
- Central nervous system lesions are not commonly associated with EMG findings of denervation activity.
Observation:
- A patient presented with complete tetraplegia and significant positive sharp waves and fibrillation potentials in plegic muscles.
- Neurographic parameters remained normal, suggesting a non-peripheral cause.
- Mediosagittal MRI revealed a tumor in the craniocervical region.
Findings:
- A foramen magnum meningioma was surgically removed.
- Post-operatively, the patient recovered, and the abnormal EMG findings (denervation activity) resolved completely.
- This case demonstrates that EMG abnormalities can originate from central lesions.
Implications:
- Clinical neurologists and electromyographers must consider central nervous system lesions when interpreting EMG findings.
- Positive sharp waves and fibrillation potentials can be indicative of central pathology.
- Successful surgical intervention for brainstem tumors can reverse EMG signs of denervation.