Isolated Toe Tremor Associated with Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rheumatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by antiphospholipid antibodies, leading to thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity.
• Neurological manifestations are common in APS, with stroke being the most frequent, but other autoimmune-related complications like chorea also occur.
• Isolated neurological symptoms without other typical APS signs are less commonly reported.

Observation:

• A case of recurrent, isolated, unilateral toe tremor is presented in an otherwise healthy woman.
• The patient had a long-standing diagnosis of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS).
• No other neurological signs or symptoms were present, distinguishing it from typical APS-related neurological deficits.

Findings:

• This report describes the first known case of isolated toe tremor as the sole neurological manifestation of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS).
• The tremor was unilateral and recurrent, presenting without other associated neurological or systemic APS features.
• This finding expands the spectrum of potential neurological complications associated with APS.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) in the differential diagnosis of isolated neurological symptoms, such as toe tremor.
• Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms linking APS to rare neurological presentations.
• Recognition of such atypical presentations can lead to earlier diagnosis and management of APS-related complications.