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Winter Y, Groppa S, Uphaus T, Ellwardt E, Fuest S, Meuth S, Bittner S, Hayani E. Cerebral vasculitis as a clinical manifestation of neurosarcoidosis: A scoping review. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103528. [PMID: 38492907 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2024.103528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
The occurrence of cerebral vasculitis in individuals with neurosarcoidosis (NS) is considered to be rare. Although the number of relevant publications has increased in recent years, evidence is mostly limited to case reports. To obtain a better understanding of this rare and severe manifestation of disease, we carried out a scoping review on cerebral vasculitis in patients diagnosed with NS. The results of the review indicate that the diagnosis of cerebral vasculitis in patients with NS is made especially in patients with systemic sarcoidosis. However, recurrent strokes in patients with NS remains the main indicator of cerebral vasculitis. A tissue biopsy is considered the gold standard to confirm the diagnosis despite occasional false-negative results. Glucocorticoids and steroid-sparing agents are the most successful current treatments. Favorable outcomes were observed with strategies targeting TNFα and B cells. The goal of this review is to summarize the current literature and treatment options for cerebral vasculitis in patients with NS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaroslav Winter
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn(2)), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, Baldingerstr, 35043 Marburg, Germany.
| | - Sergiu Groppa
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn(2)), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Timo Uphaus
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn(2)), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Erik Ellwardt
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn(2)), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology, Helios-HSK Wiesbaden, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Sven Fuest
- Department of Neurology, Hephata Klinik, Schwalmstadt, Germany
| | - Sven Meuth
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany; Department of Neurology, University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Bittner
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn(2)), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Eyad Hayani
- Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience (FTN), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn(2)), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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2
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Aldughaythir Y, Wilks A, Ghetie D, Chahin N. Neurosarcoidosis manifesting as focal sacral inflammatory radiculopathy. BMJ Case Rep 2024; 17:e259795. [PMID: 38508609 PMCID: PMC10952881 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2024-259795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Aldughaythir
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Anson Wilks
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Daniela Ghetie
- Department of Rheumatology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Nizar Chahin
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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3
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Chen JS, Korn BS, Carey AR, Savino PJ. Clinical challenge: Looking beyond blurred margins. Surv Ophthalmol 2024:S0039-6257(24)00023-7. [PMID: 38490454 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2024.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
A 60-year-old man presented to an outside ophthalmology clinic with 1 month of progressive vision loss in the right eye (OD). Right optic disc edema was noted. Brain and orbit magnetic resonance imaging revealed right optic nerve and left occipital lobe enhancement. He was seen initially by neurology and neurosurgery and subsequently referred to neuro-ophthalmology for consideration of optic nerve biopsy. He was seen 3 months after his initial symptom onset where vision was light perception OD and a relative afferent pupillary defect with optic nerve edema. OS was unremarkable. A lumbar puncture with flow cytometry was negative for multiple sclerosis and lymphoma. At his oculoplastic evaluation for optic nerve biopsy, his vision was noted to be no light perception OD. Optic nerve biopsy demonstrated non-caseating granulomatous inflammation consistent with neurosarcoidosis. The patient was started on high-dose oral steroids with improvement of disc edema, as well as significant improvement in optic nerve and intracranial parenchymal enhancement, although his vision never improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimmy S Chen
- Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology and Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Bobby S Korn
- Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology and Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Andrew R Carey
- Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Peter J Savino
- Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology and Shiley Eye Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Voortman M, Drent M, Stern BJ. Neurosarcoidosis and Neurologic Complications of Sarcoidosis Treatment. Clin Chest Med 2024; 45:91-103. [PMID: 38245373 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccm.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is an immune-mediated multisystem granulomatous disorder. Neurosarcoidosis (NS) accounts for 5% to 35% of cases. The diagnostic evaluation of NS can be a clinical challenge. Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard to evaluate central nervous system NS. In almost all cases treatment is warranted. Although glucocorticoids remain the first-line therapy in patients with sarcoidosis, in NS timely initiation of second- or third-line treatment is strongly recommended. Of these, tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors are the most promising. However, the treatment itself may be responsible for/associated with developing neurologic symptoms mimicking NS. Thus, it is important to consider the possibility of drug-induced neurologic symptoms in sarcoidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mareye Voortman
- Department of Pulmonology, Division of Heart & Lungs, University Medical Centre Utrecht, PO Box 85500, Utrecht 3508 GA, The Netherlands.
| | - Marjolein Drent
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Science, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Respiratory Medicine, ILD Center of Excellence, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands; ILD Care Foundation Research Team, Heideoordlaan 8, Ede 6711NR, The Netherlands
| | - Barney J Stern
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, 601 North Caroline Street, Neurology Room 5066B, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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Cherkaoui Jaouad MR, Miqdadi A, Mahi M, Berrada S. Atypical cerebral MRI imaging findings in a patient with isolated neurosarcoidosis. Radiol Case Rep 2024; 19:378-381. [PMID: 38033665 PMCID: PMC10682521 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2023.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a rare, chronic, granulomatous disease of unknown etiology and primarily effects the lymphatic and respiratory systems. The central nervous system (CNS) is unusually implicated in sarcoidosis patients. We describe a rare magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in a case of isolated neurosarcoidosis. The evaluation of suspect patients requires radiological imaging studies, especially MRIs. The diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis is clinically challenging, MRI studies are effective in detecting CNS inflammation but lack specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amal Miqdadi
- Cheikh Khalifa International University Hospital, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Mahi
- Cheikh Khalifa International University Hospital, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Sophia Berrada
- Cheikh Khalifa International University Hospital, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences, Casablanca, Morocco
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Fröhlich K, Mrochen A, Wang R, Haupenthal D, Macha K, Siedler G, Knott M, Dörfler A, Schwab S, Winder K. Cerebral lesions sites in neurosarcoidosis: a lesion mapping study. J Neurol 2023; 270:5392-5397. [PMID: 37433894 PMCID: PMC10576719 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11863-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous disease of unknown etiology affecting the central nervous system in up to 15% of the patients. Diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis is very challenging due to the heterogeneity of its clinical manifestation. This study intended to evaluate the distribution of cerebral lesion sites and the potential presence of specific lesion clusters in neurosarcoidosis patients using voxel-based lesion symptom mapping (VLSM). METHODS Patients with neurosarcoidosis were retrospectively identified and included between 2011 and 2022. Cerebral lesion sites were correlated voxel-wise with presence and absence of neurosarcoidosis using non-parametric permutation test. Multiple sclerosis patients served as controls for the VLSM-analysis. RESULTS Thirty-four patients (mean age 52 ± 15 years) of whom 13 were diagnosed with possible, 19 with probable and 2 with confirmed neurosarcoidosis were identified. Lesion overlap of neurosarcoidosis patients demonstrated a distribution of white matter lesions in all brain areas, with a periventricular predilection similar to multiple sclerosis. In contrast to multiple sclerosis controls, no propensity for lesions in proximity of the corpus callosum was observed. Neurosarcoidosis lesions appeared smaller and lesion volume was lower in the neurosarcoidosis cohort. The VLSM analysis showed minor associations between neurosarcoidosis and damaged voxels in the bilateral frontobasal cortex. CONCLUSIONS The VLSM analysis yielded significant associations in the bilateral frontal cortex, suggesting that leptomeningeal inflammatory disease with following cortical involvement is a quite specific feature in neurosarcoidosis. Lesion load was lower in neurosarcoidosis than in multiple sclerosis. However, no specific pattern of subcortical white matter lesions in neurosarcoidosis was revealed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kilian Fröhlich
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Anne Mrochen
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ruihao Wang
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Haupenthal
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kosmas Macha
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gabriela Siedler
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Knott
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arnd Dörfler
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefan Schwab
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Klemens Winder
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
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Herath T, Arun T, Lutchman N, Saleh M, Naidu L, Wimalaratna S. Progressive cognitive impairment and gait difficulty in a patient with schizophrenia. Pract Neurol 2023; 23:453-456. [PMID: 37308284 DOI: 10.1136/pn-2023-003774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tarunya Arun
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | | | - May Saleh
- Kettering General Hospital, Kettering, UK
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Bou GA, El Sammak S, Chien LC, Cavanagh JJ, Hutto SK. Tumefactive brain parenchymal neurosarcoidosis. J Neurol 2023; 270:4368-4376. [PMID: 37219604 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11782-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enhancing brain parenchymal disease, and especially tumefactive lesions, are an uncommon manifestation of neurosarcoidosis. Little is known about the clinical features of tumefactive lesions and their impact on management and outcomes, which this study aims to characterize. METHODS Patients with pathologically-confirmed sarcoidosis were retrospectively reviewed and included if brain lesions were: (1) intraparenchymal, (2) larger than 1 cm in diameter, and (3) associated with edema and/or mass effect. RESULTS Nine patients (9/214, 4.2%) were included. Median onset age was 37 years. Diagnosis was confirmed by brain parenchymal biopsies in 5 (55.6%). Median modified Rankin scale (mRS) score was 2 (range 1-4) at initial presentation. Common manifestations included headache (77.8%), cognitive dysfunction (66.7%), and seizures (44.4%). Sixteen lesions were present in 9 patients. The frontal lobe (31.3%) was most affected, followed by the subinsular region (12.5%), basal ganglia (12.5%%), cerebellum (12.5%), and pons (12.5%). MRI characteristics of the dominant lesions included spherical morphology (77.8%), perilesional edema (100.0%), mass effect (55.6%), well-demarcated borders (66.7%), and contrast enhancement (100.0%; 55.6% heterogeneous). Leptomeningitis was frequently present (77.8%). All required corticosteroid-sparing treatments, and most (55.6%) needed at least a third line of treatment (infliximab used in 44.4%). All patients relapsed (median 3 relapses, range 1-9). Median last mRS was 1.0 after median follow-up of 86 months, with significant residual deficits in 55.6%. CONCLUSION Tumefactive brain parenchymal lesions are uncommon, usually affect the supratentorial brain along with leptomeningitis, and are refractory to initial treatments with a high risk of relapse. Significant sequelae were encountered despite a favorable median last mRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela A Bou
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, 12 Executive Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Sally El Sammak
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, 12 Executive Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Ling-Chen Chien
- Department of Radiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Julien J Cavanagh
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, 12 Executive Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Spencer K Hutto
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, 12 Executive Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
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Takeshima S, Furuya T, Yamamoto M, Noma M, Kawate N. Planning and effectiveness of intensive rehabilitation as a treatment for a patient with neurosarcoidosis: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e34519. [PMID: 37565862 PMCID: PMC10419337 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000034519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neurosarcoidosis tends to prolong the duration of treatment and may result in a decline in physical function requiring rehabilitation. Because of a rare disease, the adjustment of oral steroid dosage, which is the cornerstone of treatment, is highly dependent on professional experience in general. Therefore, the number of hospitals that can perform dosage adjustment is very limited, and it is difficult to provide concurrent intense rehabilitation at the same hospital over a long period of time, and there are no reports that mention this. PATIENT CONCERNS A 49-year-old man, who presented with impaired consciousness, dysphagia and right hemiplegia, was diagnosed with neurosarcoidosis based on a previous diagnosis of sarcoidosis, laboratory test results, and clinical symptoms. High-dose oral steroid therapy was initiated and he was transferred to our rehabilitation hospital for progressive disuse approximately 2 months after the disease onset. DIAGNOSES This case was diagnosed as "probable" neurosarcoidosis. INTERVENTIONS The steroid dose was not reduced during rehabilitation treatment in our hospital considering the risk of relapse of the primary disease due to steroid reduction. His training regimen focused on minimum activities of daily living was performed, and its effectiveness was determined during approximately 60 days after the initiation of rehabilitation. OUTCOMES Two months after admission, he was independently eating, transferring, and toileting under supervision. He was discharged home 3 months after admission. LESSONS Intensive rehabilitation can be one of the effective comprehensive treatment strategy for patients with neurosarcoidosis. On the other hand, since there is no consensus treatment method, the duration of rehabilitation and goal setting should be adjusted based on an understanding of the characteristics of the disease and the overall treatment plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinichi Takeshima
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
- Department of Internal medicine, Sakuragaoka Central Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Toshiki Furuya
- Center for Rehabilitation, Showa University Fujigaoka Rehabilitation Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Mariko Yamamoto
- Center for Rehabilitation, Showa University Fujigaoka Rehabilitation Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Marie Noma
- Center for Rehabilitation, Showa University Fujigaoka Rehabilitation Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Kawate
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
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Dubey P, Nirhale S, Rohatgi S, Khandait P. Benign Intracranial Hypertension: A Rare Manifestation of Neurosarcoidosis. Cureus 2023; 15:e43363. [PMID: 37701004 PMCID: PMC10494484 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is an immune-mediated disease that can involve multiple systems. Sarcoidosis of the nervous system or neurosarcoidosis may present as cranial mononeuropathy, hypothalamic involvement, aseptic meningitis, granulomatous inflammation in the brain parenchyma or spinal cord, peripheral neuropathy, and, in rare cases, as myopathy and benign intracranial hypertension. The most common cranial nerve involvement is the facial nerve, which can present as unilateral or bilateral facial nerve palsy, often with recurrent episodes. Involvement of other cranial nerves such as the second and eighth cranial nerves has also been reported. Granulomatous inflammation in the spinal cord presents as myelopathy or radiculopathy. Peripheral neuropathy can manifest as mononeuropathy, mononeuritis multiplex, or generalized sensory-motor neuropathy. Carpal tunnel syndrome is more common in patients with sarcoidosis compared to the general population. Here, we describe the case of a 40-year-old female who presented with heaviness of the head and blurred vision, with a prior history of left-sided Bell's palsy. Bilateral papilledema was observed during the fundus examination. MRI of the brain revealed signs suggestive of benign intracranial hypertension. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) opening pressure was measured at 40 cmH2O. Biopsy of bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy indicated granulomatous inflammation consistent with sarcoidosis. The patient was started on steroids and acetazolamide, and she had a dramatic improvement in symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Dubey
- Department of Neurology, Dr. D.Y. (Dnyandeo Yashwantrao) Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pune, IND
| | - Satish Nirhale
- Department of Neurology, Dr. D.Y. (Dnyandeo Yashwantrao) Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pune, IND
| | - Shalesh Rohatgi
- Department of Neurology, Dr. D.Y. (Dnyandeo Yashwantrao) Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pune, IND
| | - Pranit Khandait
- Department of Neurology, Dr. D.Y. (Dnyandeo Yashwantrao) Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pune, IND
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Sedeta E, Ilerhunmwuwa NP, Hindu Pahlani R, Aiwuyo H, Wasifuddin M, Uche I, Hakobyan N, Perry J, Terebelo S. A Diagnostic Dilemma: A Case of Neurosarcoidosis Without Systemic Sarcoidosis. Cureus 2023; 15:e42844. [PMID: 37664296 PMCID: PMC10472481 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.42844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disorder of unknown etiology characterized by non-caseating granulomas in involved organs. Approximately 10% of patients with sarcoidosis exhibit central nervous system involvement. However, the occurrence of isolated neurosarcoidosis without concurrent systemic signs is very rare, affecting less than 1% of patients. We report a case of isolated neurosarcoidosis in a previously healthy patient who initially presented with a single episode of seizure and loss of consciousness. Brain MRI showed T2/fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) hyperintense extra-axial soft tissue mass over the left cerebral convexity measuring approximately 14 mm in maximum depth. Excisional biopsy of the brain mass showed chronic non-caseating granulomatous inflammation with epitheloid cells that was consistent with sarcoidosis. Treatment with high dose-steroids led to significant clinical improvement. At a two-year follow-up, there were no signs of systemic disease or recurrence of the meningeal mass. This case emphasizes the rarity of such presentation, diagnostic difficulties, and the importance of high suspicion and timely management to prevent debilitating neurologic complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ephrem Sedeta
- Medicine, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, USA
| | | | | | - Henry Aiwuyo
- Medicine, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, USA
| | | | - Ifeanyi Uche
- Medicine, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, USA
| | - Narek Hakobyan
- Medicine, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, USA
| | - Jamal Perry
- Medicine, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, USA
| | - Sima Terebelo
- Medicine, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, USA
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12
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Mandyam S, Sibyala S, Dasarathan P, Chirrareddy Y, Kalluru PKR. Neurosarcoidosis: A Rare Presentation as a Seizure. Cureus 2023; 15:e40227. [PMID: 37435272 PMCID: PMC10332791 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.40227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurosarcoidosis is a rare disorder that can develop in patients with a history of sarcoidosis or can develop even when sarcoidosis is not diagnosed. It is a granulomatous disease of the nervous system that causes different neurological disorders based on its location. However, diagnosing neurosarcoidosis remains a challenge as it mimics many other neurological disorders and does not have any biochemical markers of high specificity. A tissue-proven biopsy is the gold standard but is difficult to obtain in neurological illnesses. Thus, diagnosis is established based on the clinical syndrome and imaging, which mostly show meningeal/parenchymal lesion enhancement, in addition to the exclusion of other causes. Glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, and anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) drugs are the mainstays of treatment. We discuss a case of neurosarcoidosis in a 52-year-old woman with a known history of sarcoidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saikiran Mandyam
- Graduate Medical Education (GME) Internal Medicine, Southeast Health Medical Center, Dothan, USA
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13
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Kafai Golahmadi A, Craven CL, Watkins LD. Neurosarcoidosis Mimicking Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus. Cureus 2023; 15:e40281. [PMID: 37448383 PMCID: PMC10336621 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.40281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Two female patients, aged 46 and 51, were referred to the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery with symptoms resembling normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) and with ventriculomegaly on the MRI. Both had a definite diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis (NS) on biopsy, and they underwent the medical and surgical management reserved for NPH. At follow-up, their presenting symptoms had resolved and they had clinically improved. Neurosarcoidosis can mimic NPH, and it should be excluded in patients presenting with NPH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claudia L Craven
- Neurosurgery, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, GBR
| | - Laurence D Watkins
- Neurosurgery, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, GBR
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14
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Cutler C, Azab MA, Lucke-Wold B, Khan M, Henson JC, Gill AS, Alt JA, Karsy M. Systematic Review of Treatment Options and Therapeutic Responses for Lesions of the Sella and Orbit: Evidence-Based Recommendations. World Neurosurg 2023; 173:136-145.e30. [PMID: 36639102 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.12.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Inflammatory pathologies of the sella and orbit are rare but require prompt diagnosis to initiate effective treatment. Because uniform recommendations for treatment are currently lacking, we performed an evidence-based review to identify recommendations. METHODS We performed a literature search of the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases to identify papers evaluating treatment of inflammatory pathologies of the sella and orbit. We used PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to define recommendations, specifically examining aggregated sample sizes, disease-specific patient follow-up, and clinical trials focused on inflammatory diseases of the sella and orbit. RESULTS A total of 169 studies were included and organized by disease pathology. Treatments for various pathologies were recorded. Treatment options included surgery, radiation, steroids, targeted treatments, immunomodulators, intravenous immune globulin, and plasmapheresis. Steroids were the most often employed treatment, second-line management options and timing varied. Pathological diagnosis was highly associated with treatment used. Most evidence were level 3 without available control groups, except for 13 trials in neuromyelitis optica with level 1 or 2 evidence. CONCLUSIONS This is the first evidence-based review to provide recommendations on specific treatments for pathologies of the orbit and sella. The reported data may be useful to help guide randomized clinical trials and provide resource for clinical management decisions based on the available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Cutler
- Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mohammed A Azab
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Brandon Lucke-Wold
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Majid Khan
- Reno School of Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - J Curran Henson
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Amarbir S Gill
- Division of Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jeremiah A Alt
- Division of Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Michael Karsy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurosciences Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
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Gakosso CLG, Badr S, Zouine Y, Hammoune N, Mouhsine A. Cerebral Vasculitis Revealing Systemic Sarcoidosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Cureus 2023; 15:e36968. [PMID: 37131572 PMCID: PMC10149102 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.36968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Vasculitis in neurosarcoidosis is rare, with only a few cases reported in the literature. We report the clinical observation of a 51-year-old patient with no previous medical history, who was admitted to the emergency department due to sudden onset confusion, fever, sweating, weakness, and headaches. The first brain scan was normal, but a further biological exam with a lumbar puncture revealed lymphocytic meningitis. A complementary cerebral MRI revealed abnormalities in the white matter signal, suggestive of multiple sclerosis, with petechial hemorrhagic foci associated with leptomeningeal involvement and cerebral vasculitis. Thoraco-abdomino-pelvic computed tomography revealed hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy, as well as lymph nodes in the lower cervical region. A biopsy of the lymph nodes confirmed the presence of non-caseating granulomatous inflammation consistent with sarcoidosis. High-dose corticosteroid therapy was initiated with good clinical outcomes. Cerebral vasculitis in neurosarcoidosis is rare but can lead to neurological complications requiring long-term multidisciplinary management.
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Abstract
Sarcoidosis is characterized by noncaseating granulomas which form in almost any part of the body, primarily in the lungs and/or thoracic lymph nodes. Environmental exposures in genetically susceptible individuals are believed to cause sarcoidosis. There is variation in incidence and prevalence by region and race. Males and females are almost equally affected, although disease peaks at a later age in females than in males. The heterogeneity of presentation and disease course can make diagnosis and treatment challenging. Diagnosis is suggestive in a patient if one or more of the following is present: radiologic signs of sarcoidosis, evidence of systemic involvement, histologically confirmed noncaseating granulomas, sarcoidosis signs in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and low probability or exclusion of other causes of granulomatous inflammation. No sensitive or specific biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis exist, but there are several that can be used to support clinical decisions, such as serum angiotensin-converting enzyme levels, human leukocyte antigen types, and CD4 Vα2.3+ T cells in BALF. Corticosteroids remain the mainstay of treatment for symptomatic patients with severely affected or declining organ function. Sarcoidosis is associated with a range of adverse long-term outcomes and complications, and with great variation in prognosis between populations. New data and technologies have moved sarcoidosis research forward, increasing our understanding of the disease. However, there is still much left to be discovered. The pervading challenge is how to account for patient variability. Future studies should focus on how to optimize current tools and develop new approaches so that treatment and follow-up can be targeted to individuals with more precision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Rossides
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, Theme Inflammation and Ageing, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Unit of Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pernilla Darlington
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset and Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Internal Medicine, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susanna Kullberg
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Allergy, Theme Inflammation and Ageing, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medicine Solna, Respiratory Medicine Division & Center for Molecular Medicine (CMM), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elizabeth V Arkema
- Department of Medicine Solna, Clinical Epidemiology Division, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Vlad B, Neidhart S, Hilty M, Ziegler M, Jelcic I. Differentiating neurosarcoidosis from multiple sclerosis using combined analysis of basic CSF parameters and MRZ reaction. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1135392. [PMID: 37034091 PMCID: PMC10080049 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1135392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Neurosarcodosis is one of the most frequent differential diagnoses of multiple sclerosis (MS) and requires central nervous system (CNS) biopsy to establish definite diagnosis according to the latest consensus diagnostic criteria. We here analyzed diagnostic values of basic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters to distinguish neurosarcoidosis from MS without CNS biopsy. Methods We retrospectively assessed clinical, radiological and laboratory data of 27 patients with neurosarcoidosis treated at our center and compared following CSF parameters with those of 138 patients with relapsing-remitting MS: CSF white cell count (WCC), CSF/serum albumin quotient (Qalb), intrathecal production of immunoglobulins including oligoclonal bands (OCB), MRZ reaction, defined as a polyspecific intrathecal production of IgG reactive against ≥2 of 3 the viruses measles (M), rubella (R), and zoster (Z) virus, and CSF lactate levels. Additional inflammatory biomarkers in serum and/or CSF such as neopterin, soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were assessed. Results There was no significant difference in the frequency of CSF pleocytosis, but a CSF WCC > 30/μl was more frequent in patients with neurosarcoidosis. Compared to MS, patients with neurosarcoidosis showed more frequently an increased Qalb and CSF lactate levels as well as increased serum and CSF levels of sIL-2R, but a lower frequency of intrathecal IgG synthesis and positive MRZ reaction. Positive likelihood ratio (PLR) of single CSF parameters indicating neurosarcoidosis was highest, if (a) CSF WCC was >30/μl (PLR 7.2), (b) Qalb was >10 × 10-3 (PLR 66.4), (c) CSF-specific OCB were absent (PLR 11.5), (d) CSF lactate was elevated (PLR 23.0) or (e) sIL-2R was elevated (PLR>8.0). The combination of (a) one of three following basic CSF parameters, i.e., (a.1.) CSF WCC >30/ul, or (a.2.) QAlb >10 × 10-3, or (a.3.) absence of CSF-specific OCB, and (b) absence of positive MRZ reaction showed the best diagnostic accuracy (sensitivity and specificity each >92%; PLR 12.8 and NLR 0.08). Conclusion Combined evaluation of basic CSF parameters and MRZ reaction is powerful in differentiating neurosarcoidosis from MS, with moderate to severe pleocytosis and QAlb elevation and absence of intrathecal IgG synthesis as useful rule-in parameters and positive MRZ reaction as a rule-out parameter for neurosarcoidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Vlad
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Research Section, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Neidhart
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Research Section, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marc Hilty
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Research Section, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mario Ziegler
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Research Section, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ilijas Jelcic
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Research Section, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Ilijas Jelcic
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Chakales PA, Herman MC, Chien LC, Hutto SK. Pachymeningitis in Biopsy-Proven Sarcoidosis. NEUROLOGY - NEUROIMMUNOLOGY NEUROINFLAMMATION 2022; 9:9/6/e200028. [PMID: 36163175 PMCID: PMC9513981 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Meningeal inflammation is one of the most common manifestations of neurosarcoidosis, occurring in 16%–69% of affected patients. While the clinical and radiographic features of leptomeningitis in neurosarcoidosis are well known, those of pachymeningitis are far less clear. Our primary aim was to study the clinicoradiographic features of pachymeningeal involvement in neurosarcoidosis and its evolution over time in response to treatment. Methods Patients with a diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis seen at Emory University (January 2011–August 2021) were included if pachymeningeal involvement was evident by MRI and the patient's sarcoidosis was pathologically confirmed (from a CNS or non-CNS site). Results Twenty-six of 215 (12.1%) patients with neurosarcoidosis qualified for inclusion. Pathologic confirmation came from CNS tissue in 50%. The median age of onset was 43.5 years; most were male (16/26, 61.5%). Symptoms were primarily related to pachymeningitis in 20/26 (76.9%). Headache (19/26, 73.1%), visual dysfunction (12/26, 46.2%), and seizures (7/26, 26.9%) were the most common symptoms. All patients had cranial pachymeningitis; only a single patient undergoing spinal imaging (1/11, 9.1%) had spinal pachymeningitis. The falx cerebri (16/26, 61.5%) was the most commonly affected dural structure, but the anterior and middle cranial fossae and tentorium cerebelli were frequently involved (12/26 each, 46.2%). The pachymeningeal lesions were unifocal (11/26, 42.3%) or multifocal (15/26, 57.7%) in distribution, nodular morphologically (23/25, 92.0%), and homogeneously enhancing (24/25, 96.0%). Symptomatic improvement occurred with steroids initially in 22/25 (88.0%). Ultimately, 23/26 (88.5%) required initiation of steroid-sparing immunosuppressants, including 8/26 (30.8%) eventually undergoing TNF inhibition. Pachymeningeal relapses occurred in 7/26 (26.9%). The median clinical follow-up was 48 months. The median modified Rankin scale score at last follow-up improved to 1.0 from 2.0 at presentation. Discussion Pachymeningitis due to sarcoidosis often presents with headaches, visual dysfunction, and seizures; it usually affects the dura of the falx cerebri, anterior and middle cranial fossae, and tentorium cerebelli and tends to require steroid-sparing immunosuppressants. It has the potential to relapse, but the prospect for recovery is good.
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19
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Sambon P, Sellimi A, Kozyreff A, Gheysens O, Pothen L, Yildiz H, van Pesch V. Epidemiology, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcome of neurosarcoidosis: A mono-centric retrospective study and literature review. Front Neurol 2022; 13:970168. [PMID: 36388212 PMCID: PMC9641157 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.970168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Neurosarcoidosis is a rare granulomatous disorder, and treatment guidelines are mainly based on retrospective studies. Materials and methods This retrospective study was performed to provide a detailed description of the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of patients with neurosarcoidosis followed at Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc in Belgium. The second objective of our study was to perform a comparative literature review of neurosarcoidosis, with a focus on treatment outcomes with the use of TNF-α antagonist. Results Among 180 patients with sarcoidosis followed in our hospital, 22 patients with neurosarcoidosis were included in the final analysis. Our literature research identified 776 articles of which 35 articles met our inclusion criteria, including 1,793 patients diagnosed with neurosarcoidosis. In our cohort, the majority of patients (86%) were diagnosed with systemic sarcoidosis which was similar to that reported in the literature (83%). Serum CRP and calcemia were elevated only in 33 and 18% of patients, respectively. Serum lysozyme and angiotensin-converting enzyme were elevated in 79 and 16% of patients, respectively. Lumbar puncture and CSF fluid analysis were performed in 15/22 patients and were abnormal in all patients. Brain MRI was performed in 21/22 patients and showed abnormalities in 16 patients consisting of parenchymal lesions in 63%, hypothalamic-pituitary axis lesions in 38%, and meningeal enhancement in 31%. In both cohort patients, methotrexate was the most frequently used treatment (>45% of cases) with a favorable outcome in an average of 50% of patients. A TNF-α antagonist was administered in 9% of patients in our cohort and in 27% of patients in the literature review. The proportion of favorable outcomes in literature research was significantly higher in patients treated with TNF-α antagonists compared to methotrexate (p < 0.0001), mycophenolate mofetil (p < 0.0001), or azathioprine (p < 0.0001). Conclusion The results of our cohort and literature review confirm that neurosarcoidosis occurred most frequently in the context of systemic sarcoidosis. Methotrexate is the most frequent second-line therapy. The effectiveness of therapy with TNF-α antagonists is well-demonstrated and associated with a better outcome. Their earlier use during the disease course among aggressive and/or refractory neurosarcoidosis should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Sambon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Amina Sellimi
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alexandra Kozyreff
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Olivier Gheysens
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc and Institute of Clinical and Experimental Research (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lucie Pothen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Halil Yildiz
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vincent van Pesch
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Vincent van Pesch
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20
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Gosselin J, Roy-Hewitson C, Bullis SSM, DeWitt JC, Soares BP, Dasari S, Nevares A. Neurosarcoidosis: Phenotypes, Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2022; 24:371-382. [PMID: 36223002 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-022-01089-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this review is to provide an update of clinical presentation, diagnosis, differential diagnoses, and treatment according to recent evidence. RECENT FINDINGS Neurosarcoidosis remains a diagnosis of exclusion, with infectious and malignant etiologies recognized as important mimickers. Corticosteroids remain as first-line therapy. In recent years, however, studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapy in the treatment of neurosarcoidosis, leading to improved outcomes. Neurosarcoidosis is a granulomatous disease with protean manifestations that may affect any part of the central and peripheral nervous system. It has many mimickers, and potentially devastating complications necessitating long-term follow-up. Early initiation of treatment, particularly with anti-TNF therapy, may lead to better outcomes and fewer relapses. There is an unmet need for randomized controlled trials that provide robust data to guide therapy and the long-term management of neurosarcoidosis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne Gosselin
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, 111 Colchester Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA.
| | - Chantal Roy-Hewitson
- Department of Neurosciences, Division of Neuroimmunology, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Sean S M Bullis
- Division of Infectious Disease, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - John C DeWitt
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Bruno P Soares
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Sidarth Dasari
- Department of Neurosciences, Division of Neuroimmunology, University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Alana Nevares
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine at the University of Vermont and University of Vermont Medical Center, 111 Colchester Avenue, Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
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21
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Distinguishing CNS neurosarcoidosis from multiple sclerosis and an approach to “overlap” cases. J Neuroimmunol 2022; 369:577904. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2022.577904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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22
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Ungprasert P, Sukpornchairak P, Moss BP, Ribeiro Neto ML, Culver DA. Neurosarcoidosis: an update on diagnosis and therapy. Expert Rev Neurother 2022; 22:695-705. [PMID: 35914766 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2022.2108705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Clinically overt granulomatous involvement of the nervous system (i.e., neurosarcoidosis) can be seen in up to 10% of patients with sarcoidosis. Establishing a diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis is often challenging due to the heterogeneity of clinical presentations that are sometimes non-specific, and inaccessibility of tissue confirmation. Recommended treatments are based on expert opinions that are derived from clinical experience and limited data from retrospective studies, as data from randomized controlled studies are limited. AREA COVERED In this article, we comprehensively review all available literature on epidemiology, clinical presentations, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of neurosarcoidosis. We also offer our opinions on diagnostic approach and treatment strategy. EXPERT OPINION Given the invasive nature and the limited sensitivity of biopsy of the nervous system, diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis is usually made when ancillary tests (such as magnetic resonance imaging and cerebrospinal fluid analysis) are compatible, and alternative diagnoses are reasonably excluded in patients with established extraneural sarcoidosis. Several factors must be taken into consideration to formulate the initial treatment strategy, including the extent of the disease, severity, functional impairment, comorbidities and patient's preference. In addition, treatment regimen of neurosarcoidosis should be formulated with an emphasis on long-term strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patompong Ungprasert
- Department of Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Persen Sukpornchairak
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Brandon P Moss
- Cleveland Clinic, Neurologic Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Manuel L Ribeiro Neto
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Daniel A Culver
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Abbas M, Alahmad A, Hamzeh G, Haddeh Y. Bilateral swollen optic nerve head etiology and management: A cross-sectional study. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2022; 79:104059. [PMID: 35860086 PMCID: PMC9289387 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The differential diagnosis of optic disc edema varies according to the presence of unilateral or bilateral edema. Papilledema may occur due to benign and life-threatening causes, but even benign causes may leave serious consequences for vision if not treated emergently. This study aimed to find out the prevalence of these causes in two major hospitals in Syria and observing the response of edema to treatment within a month and how visual acuity can be saved if edema is treated urgently. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in Al-Assad and Al-Mowasat Hospitals in Syria from October 2020 to the beginning of February 2022. It included 50 patients who had bilateral optic disc edema. Then a full study was carried out to reach the diagnosis and management appropriately and to monitor the extent of the efficacy of conservative measure in reducing edema, and how many of them needed surgical intervention. Results the study included 50 patients, 13 males and 37 females, the most common diagnosis was venous sinus thrombosis (12 cases with 24%), followed by idiopathic intracranial hypertension and tumors (10 cases each by 20%), infectious meningitis (8 cases by 16%), leptomeningeal metastasis (5 cases by 10%), arterial hypertension (3 cases by 6%) and autoimmune meningitis (2 by 4%). Edema improved after management within a month in most patients (37 patients by 74%) and edema was accompanied by low visual acuity in 21 patients (42%). 20 patients (40%) needed surgical intervention. Visual acuity reduced in 10 patients (20%) despite all treatments. Conclusion venous sinus thrombosis is the most common cause of bilateral optic disc edema then idiopathic intracranial hypertension and tumors, and despite the provision of all treatments, the visual acuity of 20% of patients has decreased. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Al-Assad and Al-Mouawsat Hospitals in Damascus. The study included 50 patients, 37 females, the most common diagnosis was venous sinus thrombosis (12 cases). Edema was accompanied by low visual acuity in 21 patients (42%). Edema improved after management within a month in most patients (37 patients). 20 patients needed surgical intervention and Visual acuity reduced in 10 patients despite all treatments.
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Stroia A, Priyadarshini S, Meseeha M. Worsening Paraparesis: A Diagnostic Dilemma for Neurosarcoidosis. Cureus 2022; 14:e25958. [PMID: 35720784 PMCID: PMC9203248 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.25958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a chronic granulomatous disorder mostly known to affect the respiratory system. However, about 5-10% of cases develop neurological complications, either de novo or in patients with known sarcoidosis. The most common complications as cited by current literature include cranial nerve palsies, meningitis, and myelopathy. A unilateral thalamic lesion is an extremely rare presentation of disease. As the neurological manifestations of sarcoidosis are uncommon and variable, it poses a diagnostic challenge. We present a challenging case with worsening paraparesis and a step-by-step approach to how it was diagnosed as neurosarcoidosis. We aimed to create awareness about this uncommon manifestation to avoid misdiagnosis and promote early recognition of neurosarcoidosis.
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Otaka Y, Harada Y, Shimizu T. Case of bilateral Bell's palsy. BMJ Case Rep 2022; 15:e250364. [PMID: 35688576 PMCID: PMC9189767 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-250364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A man in his 70s presented with a 4-day history of bilateral frontal headache and heaviness of the face. He was unable to close either of his eyes, to wrinkle his forehead bilaterally and to raise either corner of his mouth. The patient was admitted with a diagnosis of bilateral facial palsy. From history, epidemiology, physical and laboratory findings, Bell's palsy was considered more probable than viral infection, Guillain-Barré syndrome and sarcoidosis. Oral administration of prednisolone, valacyclovir and mecobalamin were initiated promptly, which improved his symptoms. In areas in which Lyme disease is not endemic, we believe that Bell's palsy is the most probable cause of isolated bilateral facial palsy. Patients with bilateral facial paralysis under the suspicion of Bell's palsy should be immediately started on steroid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumi Otaka
- DepartDepartment of Diagnostic and Generalist Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University, Shimotsuga-gun, Japan
| | - Yukinori Harada
- DepartDepartment of Diagnostic and Generalist Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University, Shimotsuga-gun, Japan
| | - Taro Shimizu
- DepartDepartment of Diagnostic and Generalist Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University, Shimotsuga-gun, Japan
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Kimbrough BA, Warrington KJ, Langenfeld HE, Crowson CS, Carmona EM, Virata AR, Koster MJ. Vasculitis in Patients With Sarcoidosis: A Single-Institution Case Series of 17 Patients. J Clin Rheumatol 2022; 28:217-222. [PMID: 35319536 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000001839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vasculitis in patients with sarcoidosis is rare and can affect any sized blood vessel. Limited information describing this association is available. METHODS A single-institution medical records review study was performed reviewing all patients with a diagnosis code for sarcoidosis and vasculitis between January 1, 1998, and December 31, 2019. Data were abstracted regarding diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes from medical records. Patients were diagnosed with vasculitis based on biopsy and/or arterial imaging. Comparison between patients presenting with large and/or medium vessel vasculitis (L/MVV) versus patients with only small vessel vasculitis (SVV) was performed. RESULTS Seventeen patients were identified during the study period. Nine patients (56% female) had L/MVV, and 8 (50% female) had SVV. Sarcoidosis preceded vasculitis in 4 (44%) L/MVV and 3 (38%) SVV. The mean ± SD age at sarcoidosis diagnosis was 53.2 ± 17.8 and 51.9 ± 11.4 years, and the mean ± SD age at vasculitis diagnosis was 57.4 ± 19.6 and 59.0 ± 13.4 years in L/MVV and SVV, respectively. Number of organ systems involved by sarcoidosis was similar (median [interquartile range], 3 [1-4] L/MVV vs 2.5 [1.75-3.25] SVV). The mean length of follow-up was 11.5 ± 12.8 in L/MVV and 13.1 ± 14.3 years in SVV. Complete response to therapy for vasculitis was observed in 8 of 9 with L/MVV and 7 of 8 with SVV. Four patients with SVV were able to stop all immunosuppression as compared with only 1 patient with L/MVV at the last follow-up. CONCLUSIONS This series observed a comparable number of patients with L/MVV and SVV. Although a variety of treatments were used, most patients achieved remission regardless of vessel size affected. Clinicians should be aware of the overlap between sarcoidosis and vasculitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hannah E Langenfeld
- Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences
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Nwebube CO, Bou GA, Castilho AJ, Hutto SK. Facial nerve palsy in neurosarcoidosis: clinical course, neuroinflammatory accompaniments, ancillary investigations, and response to treatment. J Neurol 2022; 269:5328-5336. [PMID: 35583659 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11189-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Facial nerve palsy is a cardinal manifestation of neurosarcoidosis, but dedicated studies of this disease feature have not been conducted. We sought to clarify the impact of facial palsy on the diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis, its subsequent clinicoradiographic evolution, and eventual treatment decisions. METHODS A single-center retrospective analysis of patients with neurosarcoidosis and facial palsy was conducted over the preceding 10 years (01/01/2011-08/12/2021). RESULTS 23/218 (10.6%) patients with neurosarcoidosis developed facial neuropathy. It was the inaugural manifestation of neurosarcoidosis in 17/23 (73.9%) and presented in isolation of other neurologic deficits or extra-facial MRI abnormalities in 12/23 (52.2%). At onset, facial palsy was unilateral in 20/23 (87.0%), and multiple cranial neuropathies were seen in 8/23 (34.8%). Non-facial inflammatory MRI abnormalities were observed in 6/15 (40.0%) patients at onset with leptomeningitis being most common (5/15, 33.3%). 13/23 (56.5%) experienced a second attack of neurosarcoidosis at a median of 8 months, including 3/23 (13.0%) with recurrent facial palsies. In the 12 patients with isolated facial paresis at onset, 4/12 (33.3%) remained free of new deficits or neuroimaging abnormalities by last follow-up. 17/23 (73.9%) eventually required initiation of steroid-sparing immunosuppressants, almost all for development of non-facial disease. The final median House-Brackmann score was 1. CONCLUSION Facial neuropathy occurred less commonly than historically reported, and it often acts as a forerunner to systemic sarcoidosis and more widespread neurologic disease. Recurrent attacks of neurosarcoidosis occur early at high frequency following facial palsy. Recovery of facial nerve function is typically excellent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chineze O Nwebube
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, 12 Executive Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Gabriela A Bou
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, 12 Executive Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Alexander J Castilho
- Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Spencer K Hutto
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, 12 Executive Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
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Barreras P, Stern BJ. Clinical features and diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis – review article. J Neuroimmunol 2022; 368:577871. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2022.577871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Yates WB, McCluskey PJ, Fraser CL. Neuro-ophthalmological manifestations of sarcoidosis. J Neuroimmunol 2022; 367:577851. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2022.577851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Valencia-Sanchez C, Flanagan EP. Uncommon inflammatory/immune-related myelopathies. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 361:577750. [PMID: 34715593 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The differential diagnosis for immune-mediated myelopathies is broad. Although clinical manifestations overlap, certain presentations are suggestive of a particular myelopathy etiology. Spine MRI lesion characteristics including the length and location, and the pattern of gadolinium enhancement, help narrow the differential diagnosis and exclude an extrinsic compressive cause. The discovery of specific antibodies that serve as biomarkers of myelitis such as aquaporin-4-IgG and myelin-oligodendrocyte -glycoprotein-IgG (MOG-IgG), has improved our understanding of myelitis pathophysiology and facilitated diagnosis. In this review we will focus on the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, imaging findings and treatment and outcomes of uncommon immune-mediated myelopathies.
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Multiple Cranial Neuropathies and Pachymeningitis in a Patient With a Pathogenic Nucleotide-Binding Oligomerization Domain 2 Polymorphism. J Neuroophthalmol 2021; 41:547-552. [PMID: 34788239 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000001342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT An 11-year-old boy presented with 2 weeks of intermittent headache, right orbital pain, and constant diplopia. Brain MRI showed dural thickening and enhancement of the right lateral cavernous sinus, right orbital apex, and tentorium. Initial cerebral spinal fluid analysis showed only mild pleocytosis, and serum diagnostics were unrevealing. The working diagnosis was Tolosa-Hunt syndrome. His pain and sixth nerve palsy resolved with corticosteroids. Five months after initial presentation, he developed new numbness of the right cheek, complete right ophthalmoplegia, and weakness and numbness of his right hand and leg, all of which were responsive to steroids. Fifteen months later, he returned to the emergency department with 2 weeks of left-sided headaches and acute diplopia. On examination, he had a left cranial nerve 6 palsy. Dural biopsy showed diffuse mononuclear inflammatory cell reaction consisting mostly of lymphocytes with no signs of granuloma formation, nor any epithelioid or giant cells. His clinical course was consistent with an autoinflammatory condition of unknown etiology. Genetic testing with an immunodeficiency panel showed a risk allele in NOD2 (nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2) c.3019dup (p.Leu1007Prof*2) that is associated with an increased risk for Crohn disease. His clinical condition had similarities to central nervous system sarcoidosis. Because of the similarities between our patient's clinical, imaging, and genetic findings and neurosarcoidosis, he was switched to a more targeted therapy-infliximab. His condition has since been stable for nearly 2 years. In conclusion, genetic testing should be considered in patients with suspected occult autoimmunity.
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Taylor K, Muscal E, Van Mater H. The Role of Pediatric Rheumatologists in Autoimmune Brain Disease. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2021; 48:343-369. [PMID: 34798957 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The spectrum of autoimmune and inflammatory brain diseases continues to evolve with medical advances facilitating both the detection of inflammation of the central nervous system and the discovery of novel disease mechanisms. The clinical overlap of these disorders with primary rheumatic diseases and the efficacy of immunotherapy have led to strong partnerships between pediatric rheumatologists, neurologists, psychiatrists, and other providers in the care of children with these conditions. Early diagnosis and initiation of targeted therapy improve clinical outcomes, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaborative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Taylor
- Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Eyal Muscal
- Division of Rheumatology and Co-appointment in Neurology and Developmental Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Heather Van Mater
- Pediatrics, Division of Rheumatology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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Seifelnasr M, Theodorsson M, Hart J, O'Sullivan E. Rare presentation of sarcoidosis with optic neuropathy and third nerve palsy. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:e246024. [PMID: 34764122 PMCID: PMC8587621 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-246024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a systemic, idiopathic and granulomatous disease, which most commonly affects the skin, lungs and lymph nodes but can affect virtually any organ. Neurosarcoidosis can be the presenting or the only clinical manifestation accounting for 5%-15% of sarcoid diagnoses. In contrast to uveitis which is the most common ophthalmic manifestation, neuro-ophthalmic signs are uncommon in sarcoidosis. Optic neuropathy is the most common neuro-ophthalmic sign (70% in one series). Sarcoid-related optic neuropathy commonly presents with a picture similar to optic neuritis. Less commonly, optic nerve involvement occurs secondary to compressive lesions, or from direct granulomatous infiltration. Neuroimaging is crucial to identify the location of the lesion. We describe a case of sarcoid-related compressive optic neuropathy and third nerve palsy and highlight the challenging nature of neurosarcoidosis in a patient without a prior diagnosis of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Seifelnasr
- Ophthalmology, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Ophthalmology, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Jonathan Hart
- Radiology, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Eoin O'Sullivan
- Ophthalmology, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Rapidly progressive hearing loss occurring over weeks: a review of differential diagnoses. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2021; 136:775-782. [PMID: 34641994 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215121002851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Bradshaw MJ, Pawate S, Koth LL, Cho TA, Gelfand JM. Neurosarcoidosis: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment. NEUROLOGY-NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2021; 8:8/6/e1084. [PMID: 34607912 PMCID: PMC8495503 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000001084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Although often regarded as a protean illness with myriad clinical and imaging manifestations, neurosarcoidosis typically presents as recognizable syndromes that can be approached in a rational, systematic fashion. Understanding of neurosarcoidosis has progressed significantly in recent years, including updated diagnostic criteria and advances in treatment. The diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis is established by the clinical syndrome, imaging and histopathological findings, and exclusion of other causes. Mounting evidence supports the use of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors as an important addition to the therapeutic armamentarium, along with glucocorticoids and steroid-sparing cytotoxic immunosuppressants. In this narrative review, we summarize recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of neurosarcoidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Bradshaw
- From the University of Washington and Billings Clinic, (M.J.B.); Vanderbilt University Medical Center (S.P.), Nashville, TN; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care (L.L.K.), Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine; Univeristy of Iowa (T.A.C.), Iowa City; Department of Neurology (J.M.G.), Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, University of California, San Francisco.
| | - Siddharama Pawate
- From the University of Washington and Billings Clinic, (M.J.B.); Vanderbilt University Medical Center (S.P.), Nashville, TN; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care (L.L.K.), Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine; Univeristy of Iowa (T.A.C.), Iowa City; Department of Neurology (J.M.G.), Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Laura L Koth
- From the University of Washington and Billings Clinic, (M.J.B.); Vanderbilt University Medical Center (S.P.), Nashville, TN; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care (L.L.K.), Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine; Univeristy of Iowa (T.A.C.), Iowa City; Department of Neurology (J.M.G.), Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Tracey A Cho
- From the University of Washington and Billings Clinic, (M.J.B.); Vanderbilt University Medical Center (S.P.), Nashville, TN; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care (L.L.K.), Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine; Univeristy of Iowa (T.A.C.), Iowa City; Department of Neurology (J.M.G.), Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Jeffrey M Gelfand
- From the University of Washington and Billings Clinic, (M.J.B.); Vanderbilt University Medical Center (S.P.), Nashville, TN; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care (L.L.K.), Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Department of Medicine; Univeristy of Iowa (T.A.C.), Iowa City; Department of Neurology (J.M.G.), Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology, University of California, San Francisco
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Shadmani G, Simkins TJ, Assadsangabi R, Apperson M, Hacein-Bey L, Raslan O, Ivanovic V. Autoimmune diseases of the brain, imaging and clinical review. Neuroradiol J 2021; 35:152-169. [PMID: 34490814 DOI: 10.1177/19714009211042879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an extensive spectrum of autoimmune entities that can involve the central nervous system, which has expanded with the emergence of new imaging modalities and several clinicopathologic entities. Clinical presentation is usually non-specific, and imaging has a critical role in the workup of these diseases. Immune-mediated diseases of the brain are not common in daily practice for radiologists and, except for a few of them such as multiple sclerosis, there is a vague understanding about differentiating them from each other based on the radiological findings. In this review, we aim to provide a practical diagnostic approach based on the unique radiological findings for each disease. We hope our diagnostic approach will help radiologists expand their basic understanding of the discussed disease entities and narrow the differential diagnosis in specific clinical scenarios. An understanding of unique imaging features of these disorders, along with laboratory evaluation, may enable clinicians to decrease the need for tissue biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazal Shadmani
- Department of Radiology, Section of Neuroradiology, University of California Davis Medical Center, USA
| | - Tyrell J Simkins
- Department of Neurology (Neuroimmunulogy), University of California Davis Medical center, USA
| | - Reza Assadsangabi
- Department of Radiology, Section of Neuroradiology, University of California Davis Medical Center, USA
| | - Michelle Apperson
- Department of Neurology (Neuroimmunulogy), University of California Davis Medical center, USA
| | - Lotfi Hacein-Bey
- Department of Radiology, Section of Neuroradiology, University of California Davis Medical Center, USA
| | - Osama Raslan
- Department of Radiology, Section of Neuroradiology, University of California Davis Medical Center, USA
| | - Vladimir Ivanovic
- Department of Radiology, Section of Neuroradiology, University of California Davis Medical Center, USA
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Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological inflammatory disorder known to attack the heavily myelinated regions of the nervous system including the optic nerves, cerebellum, brainstem and spinal cord. This review will discuss the clinical manifestations and investigations for MS and other similar neurological inflammatory disorders affecting vision, as well as the effects of MS treatments on vision. Assessment of visual pathways is critical, considering MS can involve multiple components of the visual pathway, including optic nerves, uvea, retina and occipital cortex. Optical coherence tomography is increasingly being recognised as a highly sensitive tool in detecting subclinical optic nerve changes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is critical in MS diagnosis and in predicting long-term disability. Optic neuritis in MS involves unilateral vision loss, with characteristic pain on eye movement. The visual loss in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder tends to be more severe with preferential altitudinal field loss, chiasmal and tract lesions are also more common. Other differential diagnoses include chronic relapsing inflammatory optic neuropathy and giant cell arteritis. Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy affects young males and visual loss tends to be painless and subacute, typically involving both optic nerves. MS lesions in the vestibulocerebellum, brainstem, thalamus and basal ganglia may lead to abnormalities of gaze, saccades, pursuit and nystagmus which can be identified on eye examination. Medial longitudinal fasciculus lesions can cause another frequent presentation of MS, internuclear ophthalmoplegia, with failure of ipsilateral eye adduction and contralateral eye abduction nystagmus. Treatments for MS include high-dose corticosteroids for acute relapses and disease-modifying medications for relapse prevention. These therapies may also have adverse effects on vision, including central serous retinopathy with corticosteroid therapy and macular oedema with fingolimod.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshan Dhanapalaratnam
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Maria Markoulli
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Arun V Krishnan
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Bathla G, Abdel-Wahed L, Agarwal A, Cho TA, Gupta S, Jones KA, Priya S, Soni N, Wasserman BA. Vascular Involvement in Neurosarcoidosis: Early Experiences From Intracranial Vessel Wall Imaging. NEUROLOGY-NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2021; 8:8/6/e1063. [PMID: 34349028 PMCID: PMC8340434 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000001063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Cerebrovascular manifestations in neurosarcoidosis (NS) were previously considered rare but are being increasingly recognized. We report our preliminary experience in patients with NS who underwent high-resolution vessel wall imaging (VWI). METHODS A total of 13 consecutive patients with NS underwent VWI. Images were analyzed by 2 neuroradiologists in consensus. The assessment included segment-wise evaluation of larger- and medium-sized vessels (internal carotid artery, M1-M3 middle cerebral artery; A1-A3 anterior cerebral artery; V4 segments of vertebral arteries; basilar artery; and P1-P3 posterior cerebral artery), lenticulostriate perforator vessels, and medullary and deep cerebral veins. Cortical veins were not assessed due to flow-related artifacts. Brain biopsy findings were available in 6 cases and were also reviewed. RESULTS Mean patient age was 54.9 years (33-71 years) with an M:F of 8:5. Mean duration between initial diagnosis and VWI study was 18 months. Overall, 9/13 (69%) patients had vascular abnormalities. Circumferential large vessel enhancement was seen in 3/13 (23%) patients, whereas perforator vessel involvement was seen in 6/13 (46%) patients. Medullary and deep vein involvement was also seen in 6/13 patients. In addition, 7/13 (54%) patients had microhemorrhages in susceptibility-weighted imaging, and 4/13 (31%) had chronic infarcts. On biopsy, 5/6 cases showed perivascular granulomas with vessel wall involvement in all 5 cases. DISCUSSION Our preliminary findings suggest that involvement of intracranial vascular structures may be a common finding in patients with NS and should be routinely looked for. These findings appear concordant with previously reported autopsy literature and need to be validated on a larger scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girish Bathla
- From the Department of Radiology (G.B., S.P., N.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Department of Neurology (L.A.-W., T.A.C.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; Department of Radiology (A.A.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Department Pathology (S.G., K.A.J.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; and Department of Radiology (B.A.W.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.
| | - Lama Abdel-Wahed
- From the Department of Radiology (G.B., S.P., N.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Department of Neurology (L.A.-W., T.A.C.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; Department of Radiology (A.A.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Department Pathology (S.G., K.A.J.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; and Department of Radiology (B.A.W.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Amit Agarwal
- From the Department of Radiology (G.B., S.P., N.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Department of Neurology (L.A.-W., T.A.C.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; Department of Radiology (A.A.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Department Pathology (S.G., K.A.J.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; and Department of Radiology (B.A.W.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Tracey A Cho
- From the Department of Radiology (G.B., S.P., N.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Department of Neurology (L.A.-W., T.A.C.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; Department of Radiology (A.A.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Department Pathology (S.G., K.A.J.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; and Department of Radiology (B.A.W.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sarika Gupta
- From the Department of Radiology (G.B., S.P., N.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Department of Neurology (L.A.-W., T.A.C.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; Department of Radiology (A.A.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Department Pathology (S.G., K.A.J.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; and Department of Radiology (B.A.W.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Karra A Jones
- From the Department of Radiology (G.B., S.P., N.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Department of Neurology (L.A.-W., T.A.C.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; Department of Radiology (A.A.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Department Pathology (S.G., K.A.J.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; and Department of Radiology (B.A.W.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sarv Priya
- From the Department of Radiology (G.B., S.P., N.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Department of Neurology (L.A.-W., T.A.C.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; Department of Radiology (A.A.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Department Pathology (S.G., K.A.J.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; and Department of Radiology (B.A.W.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Neetu Soni
- From the Department of Radiology (G.B., S.P., N.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Department of Neurology (L.A.-W., T.A.C.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; Department of Radiology (A.A.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Department Pathology (S.G., K.A.J.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; and Department of Radiology (B.A.W.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Bruce A Wasserman
- From the Department of Radiology (G.B., S.P., N.S.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Department of Neurology (L.A.-W., T.A.C.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; Department of Radiology (A.A.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center; Department Pathology (S.G., K.A.J.), University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, IA; and Department of Radiology (B.A.W.), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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Beiriger J, Abou-Al-Shaar H, Deng H, Mathkour M, Okonkwo DO. Thoracic intramedullary neurosarcoidosis with thoracic disc herniation: Diagnostic importance of intramedullary contrast enhancement. Surg Neurol Int 2021; 12:331. [PMID: 34345472 PMCID: PMC8326063 DOI: 10.25259/sni_535_2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Thoracic intramedullary neurosarcoidosis is an uncommon but serious manifestation of spinal cord disease. Its concomitant occurrence with thoracic disc herniation can mislead the physician into attributing neurologic and radiographic findings in the spinal cord to disc pathology rather than inflammatory disorder. Here, we present such a rare case of concomitant thoracic disc and spinal neurosarcoidosis. Case Description: A 37-year-old male presented with progressive right lower extremity weakness and numbness. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the thoracic spinal cord revealed a T6-T7 paracentral disc eccentric to the right with T2 signal change extending from T2 to T10 level. This prompted acquiring a contrasted MRI that also depicted intramedullary enhancement around the T6-T7 disc bulge. Computed tomography scan of the chest showed mediastinal lymphadenopathy concerning for sarcoidosis. Lymph node biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of sarcoidosis, and high-dose steroid treatment was initiated. The patient had significant symptomatic improvement with steroids with full neurological recovery and improvement of his symptoms. Conclusion: While stenosis from thoracic disc disease could potentially suggest a mechanical etiology for the patient’s symptoms, attention must be paid to the imaging findings as well as the degree and extent of cord signal change and intramedullary contrast enhancement. Appropriate and timely diagnosis is essential to avoid unnecessary invasive procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Beiriger
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Hussam Abou-Al-Shaar
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Hansen Deng
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Mansour Mathkour
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tulane Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
| | - David O Okonkwo
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
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Ramos-Casals M, Pérez-Alvarez R, Kostov B, Gómez-de-la-Torre R, Feijoo-Massó C, Chara-Cervantes J, Pinilla B, González-García A, Garcia-Morillo JS, López-Dupla M, De-Escalante B, Rascón J, Perez-Guerrero P, Bonet M, Cruz-Caparrós G, Alguacil A, Callejas JL, Calvo E, Soler C, Robles A, de Miguel-Campo B, Oliva-Nacarino P, Estela-Herrero J, Pallarés L, Brito-Zerón P, Blanco Y. Clinical characterization and outcomes of 85 patients with neurosarcoidosis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13735. [PMID: 34215779 PMCID: PMC8253777 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92967-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
To analyze the frequency and clinical phenotype of neurosarcoidosis (NS) in one of the largest nationwide cohorts of patients with sarcoidosis reported from southern Europe. NS was evaluated according to the Diagnostic Criteria for Central Nervous System and Peripheral Nervous System Sarcoidosis recently proposed by Stern et al. Pathologic confirmation of granulomatous disease was used to subclassify NS into definite (confirmation in neurological tissue), probable (confirmation in extraneurological tissue) and possible (no histopathological confirmation of the disease). Of the 1532 patients included in the cohort, 85 (5.5%) fulfilled the Stern criteria for NS (49 women, mean age at diagnosis of NS of 47.6 years, 91% White). These patients developed 103 neurological conditions involving the brain (38%), cranial nerves (36%), the meninges (3%), the spinal cord (10%) and the peripheral nerves (14%); no patient had concomitant central and peripheral nerve involvements. In 59 (69%) patients, neurological involvement preceded or was present at the time of diagnosis of the disease. According to the classification proposed by Stern et al., 11 (13%) were classified as a definite NS, 61 (72%) as a probable NS and the remaining 13 (15%) as a possible NS. In comparison with the systemic phenotype of patients without NS, patients with CNS involvement presented a lower frequency of thoracic involvement (82% vs 93%, q = 0.018), a higher frequency of ocular (27% vs 10%, q < 0.001) and salivary gland (15% vs 4%, q = 0.002) WASOG involvements. In contrast, patients with PNS involvement showed a higher frequency of liver involvement (36% vs 12%, p = 0.02) in comparison with patients without NS. Neurosarcoidosis was identified in 5.5% of patients. CNS involvement prevails significantly over PNS involvement, and both conditions do not overlap in any patient. The systemic phenotype associated to each involvement was clearly differentiated, and can be helpful not only in the early identification of neurological involvement, but also in the systemic evaluation of patients diagnosed with neurosarcoidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Ramos-Casals
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, ICMiD, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Belchin Kostov
- Primary Healthcare Transversal Research Group, IDIBAPS, Primary Care Center Les Corts, CAPSBE, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Statistics and Operational Research, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Blanca Pinilla
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Javier Rascón
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Son Espases, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | | | - Mariona Bonet
- Department of Internal Medicine, Althaia, Xarxa Assistencial de Manresa, Manresa, Spain
| | - Gracia Cruz-Caparrós
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital de Poniente de El Ejido, Almería, Spain
| | - Ana Alguacil
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Virgen de la Salud, Toledo, Spain
| | | | - Eva Calvo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital San Jorge, Huesca, Spain
| | - Cristina Soler
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Santa Caterina, Girona, Spain
| | - Angel Robles
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Pedro Oliva-Nacarino
- Department of Neurology. Hospital, Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Oviedo, Spain
| | | | - Lucio Pallarés
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Son Espases, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Pilar Brito-Zerón
- Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital CIMA-Sanitas, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Yolanda Blanco
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
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Christ-Crain M, Winzeler B, Refardt J. Diagnosis and management of diabetes insipidus for the internist: an update. J Intern Med 2021; 290:73-87. [PMID: 33713498 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes insipidus is a disorder characterized by excretion of large amounts of hypotonic urine. Four entities have to be differentiated: central diabetes insipidus resulting from a deficiency of the hormone arginine vasopressin (AVP) in the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus resulting from resistance to AVP in the kidneys, gestational diabetes insipidus resulting from an increase in placental vasopressinase and finally primary polydipsia, which involves excessive intake of large amounts of water despite normal AVP secretion and action. Distinguishing between the different types of diabetes insipidus can be challenging. A detailed medical history, physical examination and imaging studies are needed to detect the aetiology of diabetes insipidus. Differentiation between the various forms of hypotonic polyuria is then done by the classical water deprivation test or the more recently developed hypertonic saline or arginine stimulation together with copeptin (or AVP) measurement. In patients with idiopathic central DI, a close follow-up is needed since central DI can be the first sign of an underlying pathology. Treatment of diabetes insipidus or primary polydipsia depends on the underlying aetiology and differs in central diabetes insipidus, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus and primary polydipsia. This review will discuss issues and newest developments in diagnosis, differential diagnosis and treatment, with a focus on central diabetes insipidus.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Christ-Crain
- From the, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - B Winzeler
- From the, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - J Refardt
- From the, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Goel J, Anadure R, Gupta S, Wilson V, Saxena R, Sahu S, Mutreja D. A Study of the Clinical Profile, Radiologic Features, and Therapeutic Outcomes in Neurosarcoidosis from Two Tertiary Care Centers in Southern India. Neurol India 2021; 68:609-616. [PMID: 32643673 DOI: 10.4103/0028-3886.288976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory granulomatous disease affecting multiple organ systems. Neurological manifestations are rare and seen in approximately 5% cases of sarcoidosis. They may commonly precede the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Since there is paucity of Indian literature on this subject, we decided to review the clinical and radiological profile, laboratory abnormalities, treatment and long-term outcomes in our patients with neurosarcoidosis (NS). Methods The study was done by retrospective review of medical records for all cases diagnosed as NS during the period Jan 2014-Jan 2018. These cases were classified as definite, probable, and possible NS, on the basis of established diagnostic parameters (Zajicek criteria). The follow-up record in these cases ranged from 6 months to 3 years, with special emphasis on monitoring the response to treatment and long-term disability. Results The cases showed varied clinical abnormalities and imaging findings. Cranial neuropathies and myelopathy were the most common clinical presentations. Optic neuritis was most common cranial neuropathy, followed by facial nerve palsy and lower cranial nerve palsies. Most common magnetic resonance imaging findings were T2 hyperintense parenchymal lesions and meningeal enhancement. There was strong correlation between baseline clinico radiological parameters and long-term outcomes, as evidenced by relatively poor prognosis seen in cases with bilateral optic neuritis, myelopathy and imaging evidence of hydrocephalus, or leptomeningitis. Conclusion The diagnosis of NS requires a high degree of suspicion, coupled with exclusion of alternate diagnosis. It commonly precedes the onset of systemic sarcoidosis. Central nervous system involvement in sarcoidosis is associated with poor clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitesh Goel
- Department of Neurology, Command Hospital Air Force, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Ravi Anadure
- Department of Medicine, Agram Post, Command Hospital Air Force, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Salil Gupta
- Department of Neurology, Army Hospital R and R, New Delhi, India
| | - Vinny Wilson
- Department of Neurology, INHS Asvini, Mumbai, India
| | - Rajeev Saxena
- Department of Neurology, Command Hospital Air Force, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Samaresh Sahu
- Department of Radiology, Command Hospital Air Force, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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Neuroimaging findings in rheumatologic disorders. J Neurol Sci 2021; 427:117531. [PMID: 34130065 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2021.117531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Patients with rheumatological diseases may present with neurological manifestations of peripheral and/or central nervous system (CNS). Symptoms may be related to underlying rheumatological disease or CNS effects of immune-modulating drugs. Early diagnosis and therapy may help prevent serious complications. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), given its excellent soft tissue details, is the preferred imaging modality when evaluating patients with rheumatological disease and suspected CNS involvement. We present a review of the neuroimaging manifestations of various rheumatic diseases with emphasis on the imaging findings on MRI.
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Murayama K, Inoue A, Nakamura Y, Ochi M, Shigekawa S, Watanabe H, Kitazawa R, Kunieda T. A rare case of neurosarcoidosis occurred only in the medulla oblongata mimicking malignant brain tumor. Surg Neurol Int 2021; 12:243. [PMID: 34221574 PMCID: PMC8247731 DOI: 10.25259/sni_195_2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Sarcoidosis is a multisystem disorder characterized by noncaseating epithelioid granulomas. However, neurosarcoidosis occurring only in the medulla oblongata is very rare and lacks specific imaging and clinical features. We report a rare case of neurosarcoidosis arising from the medulla oblongata alone, suggesting the significance of pathological findings for accurate diagnosis. Case Description: A 78-year-old woman with a history of rheumatoid arthritis was admitted to our hospital with a 3-month history of progressive numbness in bilateral lower extremities and gait disturbance. Neurological examination on admission showed mild bilateral paired paralysis of the lower limbs (manual muscle test: right 2/V; left 4/V) and marked numbness in the right lower limb. Neuroimaging revealed a solid mass with clear boundaries in the dorsal medulla oblongata appearing hypointense on T1-weighted imaging (WI), hyperintense on T2-WI, and hypointense on diffusion WI (DWI), with strong enhancement on gadolinium-enhanced T1-WI. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed moderately elevated levels of protein and lymphocytic cells. Biopsy to determine the exact diagnosis revealed histological findings of noncaseating epithelioid granulomas and inflammatory infiltration, consistent with sarcoidosis. Postoperatively, corticosteroid therapy with prednisolone was initiated as soon as possible, resulting in marked reductions in lesion size. Follow-up neuroimaging after 12 months showed no signs of recurrence. Conclusion: Neurosarcoidosis is difficult to diagnose from routine neuroimaging and laboratory findings. Accurate diagnosis requires careful identification of clinical signs, hypointensity on DWI, and morphological findings from surgical biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Murayama
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Akihiro Inoue
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Yawara Nakamura
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Masayuki Ochi
- Department of Neurology and Geriatric Medicine, Ehime University School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Seiji Shigekawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Hideaki Watanabe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Riko Kitazawa
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Ehime University Hospital, Toon, Ehime, Japan
| | - Takeharu Kunieda
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ehime University School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
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Mansour M, Rachdi A, Baradai N, Kacem A, Bedoui I, Mrissa R. Monocentric study of 28 cases of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy: first Tunisian study. Neurol Sci 2021; 43:565-571. [PMID: 33945035 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05153-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare affection of the peripheral nervous system. Its diagnostic criteria have evolved since 1975. The aim of our work is to study the epidemiological, clinical, and paraclinical aspects of CIDP. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of 28 CIDP patients of the neurology department of the military hospital of Tunis between January 2000 and December 2017. All these patients met the European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society(EFNS/PNS)2010 diagnostic criteria for definite CIDP. RESULTS The average age was 50 years with a gender ratio of 1.57. We found sensitivomotor symptoms in 66% of patients. Neurological assessment showed a proximal and distal motor weakness in 50% of cases, the involvement of superficial and deep sensory systems in 44% of patients with a generalized areflexia in all patients. Median Inflammatory Neuropthy Cause and Treatment (INCAT) score was 7. Concerning electrophysiology, all our patients met the EFNS/EPS 2010 diagnostic criteria for a definite CIDP. Screening for concurrent pathologies was positive in 11 patients. On the therapeutic side, there was no superiority of intravenous immunoglobin compared with pulsed methylprednisolone. Oral steroids were used as backup in about 50% of patients. There were good outcomes in 72% of patients who improved very well after treatment. CONCLUSION CIDP is a rare and polymorphic disorder with a variety of concurrent pathologies. Our study is the first study in Tunisia and in Maghreb countries which included the most big series of patients. Our results were similar to literature. A multicentral study would be better profitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malek Mansour
- Department of Neurology, Military Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Amine Rachdi
- Department of Neurology, Military Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Amel Kacem
- Department of Medicine, Regional Hospital of Jendouba, Jendouba, Tunisia
| | - Ines Bedoui
- Department of Neurology, Military Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ridha Mrissa
- Department of Neurology, Military Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
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Abstract
Bilateral facial palsy (BFP) is exceedingly rare, representing only 0.3%-2.0% of facial palsy cases. Unlike unilateral facial palsy, it is often caused by a serious underlying systemic disease and therefore warrants urgent medical intervention. The differential diagnosis is broad, and detailed history, physical examination, and investigations are essential for identifying the etiology. Common acquired causes in existing case series include Lyme disease, Guillain-Barré syndrome, sarcoidosis, trauma, and Bell’s palsy. Palsy that develops rapidly is often caused by trauma, infections, or autoimmune disorders, whereas slow progressive palsy suggests neoplastic diseases. While management varies by etiology, the physician can consider early empiric corticosteroids given their efficacy in numerous differential diagnoses. Antivirals can be considered in those with a strong history of viral prodrome. In this paper, we present the case of a puerperal patient with BFP and discuss its differential diagnosis, diagnostic approach, and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvin Yang
- Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, CAN
| | - Vikram Dalal
- Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, CAN
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Raibagkar P, Ramineni A. Autoimmune Neurologic Emergencies. Neurol Clin 2021; 39:589-614. [PMID: 33896534 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2021.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, understanding of autoimmune neurologic disorders has exponentially increased. Many patients present as a neurologic emergency and require timely evaluation with rapid management and intensive care. However, the diagnosis is often either missed or delayed, which may lead to a significant burden of disabling morbidity and even mortality. A high level of suspicion in the at-risk population should be maintained to facilitate more rapid diagnosis and prompt treatment. At present, there is no all-encompassing algorithm specifically applicable to the management of fulminant autoimmune neurologic disorders. This article discusses manifestations and management of various autoimmune neurologic emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Raibagkar
- Concord Hospital Neurology Associates, 246 Pleasant Street, Concord, NH 03301, USA.
| | - Anil Ramineni
- Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Beth Israel Lahey Health, 41 Mall Road, Burlington, MA 01803, USA
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48
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Bryant BS, Marsh KA, Beuerlein WJ, Kalil D, Shah KK. A Case of Sarcoidosis Mimicking Lymphoma Confounded by Cognitive Decline. Cureus 2021; 13:e13667. [PMID: 33824818 PMCID: PMC8018181 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.13667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a disease with an unknown cause that affects multiple organ systems and has a varied clinical presentation. Often, its symptomatology mimics other disease processes, such as lymphoma, tuberculosis, and amyloidosis. The reticuloendothelial involvement and typical B symptoms of weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, and lymphadenopathy can make sarcoidosis often easily confused with lymphoma. Sarcoidosis has a myriad of central nervous system (CNS) effects, which are often not recognized as symptoms of the disease. These neuropsychiatric symptoms can include, but are not limited to, cognitive decline, headaches, and personality changes. In this report, we discuss a case of a patient who presented with symptoms consistent with indolent lymphoma but was eventually diagnosed with sarcoidosis with extrapulmonary manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathleen A Marsh
- Internal Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, USA
| | | | - Darryl Kalil
- Internal Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Kinchit K Shah
- Internal Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, USA
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Narula N, Iannuzzi M. Sarcoidosis: Pitfalls and Challenging Mimickers. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 7:594275. [PMID: 33505980 PMCID: PMC7829200 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.594275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcoidosis, a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown etiology, may mimic other conditions at presentation often resulting in delayed diagnosis. These conditions include infections, neoplasms, autoimmune, cardiovascular, and drug-induced diseases. This review highlights the most common sarcoidosis mimics that often lead to pitfalls in diagnosis and delay in appropriate treatment. Prior to invasive testing and initiating immunosuppressants (commonly corticosteroids), it is important to exclude sarcoid mimickers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naureen Narula
- Staten Island University Hospital, New York, NY, United States
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50
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Maekawa T, Goto Y, Aoki T, Hino A, Oka H, Yokoya S, Fujii A. Acute central nervous system vasculitis as a manifestation of neurosarcoidosis: A case report and literature review. Radiol Case Rep 2020; 16:410-414. [PMID: 33354273 PMCID: PMC7744809 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2020.11.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurosarcoidosis (NS) affects various sites of the central nervous system, including the cranial nerve, meninges, brain parenchyma, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland. NS rarely causes intracerebral vasculitis and subsequent strokes, or cerebral infarction and hemorrhage, which are associated with high mortality. Herein, we report a 71-year-old woman's case of stroke associated with NS, which showed aggressive cerebral vasculitis with brain herniation; it was resolved with corticosteroid therapy after accurate histopathological diagnosis. This case highlights the necessity of expecting NS to sometimes follow an aggressive course, presenting with vasculitis. Most patients with NS satisfactorily respond to corticosteroids, but this is not always the case. In cases of unfamiliar ischemic or hemorrhagic lesions, the possibility of NS must be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toyonobu Maekawa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Saiseikai Shiga Hospital, 2-4-1, Ohhashi, Rittou-City, Shiga-Prefecture 520-3046, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Goto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Saiseikai Shiga Hospital, 2-4-1, Ohhashi, Rittou-City, Shiga-Prefecture 520-3046, Japan
| | - Takuma Aoki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Saiseikai Shiga Hospital, 2-4-1, Ohhashi, Rittou-City, Shiga-Prefecture 520-3046, Japan
| | - Akihiko Hino
- Department of Neurosurgery, Saiseikai Shiga Hospital, 2-4-1, Ohhashi, Rittou-City, Shiga-Prefecture 520-3046, Japan
| | - Hideki Oka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Saiseikai Shiga Hospital, 2-4-1, Ohhashi, Rittou-City, Shiga-Prefecture 520-3046, Japan
| | - Shigeomi Yokoya
- Department of Neurosurgery, Saiseikai Shiga Hospital, 2-4-1, Ohhashi, Rittou-City, Shiga-Prefecture 520-3046, Japan
| | - Akihiro Fujii
- Department of Neurology, Saiseikai Shiga Hospital, 2-4-1, Ohhashi, Rittou-City, Shiga-Prefecture 20-3046, Japan
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