Magnetic resonance imaging brain findings in a case of aquaporin-4 antibody-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, presenting with intractable vomiting and hiccups

J Neurosci Rural Pract. 2017 Jan-Mar;8(1):135-138. doi: 10.4103/0976-3147.193533.

Abstract

Neuromyelitisoptica (NMO) and multiple sclerosis (MS) were once considered to be differing manifestation of same auto immune disease, NMO predominantly involving the optic nerve and cord. Now with discovery of NMO antibody the concept has changed and a spectrum of disorders with lesions in brain has been identified. Occasionally, brain may be the first or the only site of involvement in these disorders hence it is essential to be aware of this spectrum. The brain lesions in NMO/NMOSD may be located in characteristic regions and present with symptoms mimicking non neurological disease. We herein present a case of an adult female who was admitted with intractable vomiting and hiccups; subsequently on MRI brain found to have very tiny demyelinating foci in Area Postrema.

Keywords: Aquaporin-4 antibody; area postrema; longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesions; magnetic resonance imaging; multiple sclerosis; neuromyelitis optica; optic neuritis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports