Work

A Case Report of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder in a Young Patient With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), previously neuromyelitis optica, is an autoimmune, inflammatory CNS syndrome that can present in a variety of manifestations. It is associated with serum aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G antibodies (AQP4-IgG); however, its presence is not required for the diagnosis. In this report, a rare case of NMOSD is presented in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The patient is a 21-year-old female with SLE who presented with intractable nausea, vomiting and hiccups. She underwent a thorough gastrointestinal workup that was non-revealing. A CNS workup was initiated ultimately revealing the diagnosis of NMOSD. Her symptoms resolved after initiating high-dose intravenous steroids and she was subsequently started on rituximab. In patients presenting with area postrema syndrome, in the setting of an established autoimmune disorder, clinicians should have a high clinical suspicion of NMOSD. An MRI of the brain and checking for serum AQP-4 IgG are important in making the diagnosis.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.83092

Authors: Xaver Audhya, Jane Ma, Luciano Castaneda

Institutions: University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles Medical Center, Olive View-UCLA Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Multiple Sclerosis Research Studies

Subfield: Pathology and Forensic Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4409855775