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Primary lateral sclerosis plus parkinsonism: a case report
Abhaya Moturu1,2, Wade Welch3
1Department of Neurology, University of Kansas St. Francis Health System, Topeka, KS, USA. atmoturu2@gmail.com.
BMC Neurology
|August 29, 2023
Summary
Diagnosing primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) is challenging due to restrictive criteria. This case highlights a patient with PLS and parkinsonism, suggesting current diagnostic standards may exclude some individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurodegenerative Diseases
Background:
- The Pringle criteria for diagnosing primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) require three years of exclusive upper motor neuron symptoms.
- These criteria have been questioned for their restrictive time frame and symptom presentation.
Observation:
- A case report details a 57-year-old female with both pyramidal and extrapyramidal features, suggestive of PLS with parkinsonism.
- The patient presented with a combination of upper motor neuron signs and significant parkinsonian symptoms.
Findings:
- The case underscores the rarity of co-occurring PLS and parkinsonism.
- Diagnostic workup included evaluating symptoms against established criteria for PLS and Parkinson's disease differentials.
Implications:
- Current diagnostic criteria for PLS may be too restrictive, potentially excluding eligible patients.
- A broad differential diagnosis, including other neurodegenerative conditions, and long-term follow-up are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
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