Small cell lung carcinoma presenting with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis

Abstract

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a demyelinating disease characterised by subcortical high-signal white matter lesions on T2 weighted MRI. It most commonly occurs in children following an acute viral illness. We present a case study in which ADEM was the presenting condition in an adult female with small cell lung carcinoma. We discuss the evidence in the literature suggesting that ADEM may be viewed as a paraneoplastic syndrome.

Hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma associated with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis by a possible paraneoplastic process

“… 22 Further, as above, EHE has been described to cause paraneoplastic disease and there are numerous reports suggesting demyelination as a result of paraneoplastic syndrome. 16 – 22 Although a causal relationship cannot be established at this time, we believe that the two processes in this patient are related, likely via a paraneoplastic syndrome, rather than by chance association. As an outpatient, the patient continues to follow up with regarding management of her EHE as well as a potential liver transplant.…”

“…8 Although ADEM most commonly presents after an infection or vaccination, multiple case reports have shown an association between neoplasms and ADEM presenting as a possible paraneoplastic syndrome. [16][17][18][19][20][21][22] We present a case of EHE causing ADEM by a paraneoplastic process in a 23 year old female who presented with acute onset of fevers, tremors, right sided hemiplegia, global aphasia, and incontinence of urine and stool.…”

“… 8 Although ADEM most commonly presents after an infection or vaccination, multiple case reports have shown an association between neoplasms and ADEM presenting as a possible paraneoplastic syndrome. 16 – 22 …”