Seronegative Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder: An Unusual Presentation of Acute Brainstem Syndrome
Unusual clinical course
Zahra Haider Alshurafa, Mashael Omar Alkhateeb
College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Am J Case Rep 2020; 21:e922590
DOI: 10.12659/AJCR.922590
Available online: 2020-04-02
Published: 2020-05-04

BACKGROUND:
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune, demyelinating, inflammatory disorder affecting the central nervous system, mostly targeting optic nerves and the spinal cord. NMO spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a newly revised nomenclature in which new diagnostic criteria have been developed, including serological testing of serum aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G (AQP4-IgG) antibodies. Results of a negative antibody will group the patient in a seronegative subgroup.
CASE REPORT:
We describe the case of a 27-year-old female who presented to our hospital with new onset of sudden unexplained vomiting, dysphagia, dysphonia, and food regurgitation. Extensive investigations were done and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a small nonspecific area of signal abnormality in the right dorsal medulla. Aquaporin-4 antibodies were negative, and the patient was diagnosed with seronegative NMOSD with acute brainstem syndrome after meeting the diagnostic criteria. The patient’s condition improved after steroids administration.
CONCLUSIONS:
We report an unusual presentation of seronegative NMOSD presenting with acute brainstem syndrome.
Keywords: Aquaporin 4, Brain Stem, dysphonia, Neuromyelitis Optica, Vomiting