Work

POEMS syndrome with multiple ganglioside/paraneoplastic antibodies misdiagnosed as CIDP: a case report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: POEMS syndrome is a rare multisystem disorder characterized by polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal protein (M-protein) secretion, and skin changes. Its pathogenesis is driven by plasma cell dyscrasias and the dysregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In contrast, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an immune-mediated condition that primarily affects peripheral nerve myelin, lacking the systemic involvement and hematological markers characteristic of POEMS syndrome. Given their overlapping neuromuscular manifestations-primarily progressive sensory loss and motor weakness-POEMS is frequently misdiagnosed as CIDP during initial presentation. This report presents a case of POEMS syndrome initially presenting with lower limb paresthesia. Through evaluation of the clinical course, specialized laboratory findings, and histopathological analysis, the diagnosis was clarified. By integrating this case with a comprehensive literature review, our study aims to enhance clinical vigilance and diagnostic accuracy in distinguishing POEMS syndrome from CIDP, two disorders with superficially similar neuropathic features but fundamentally different underlying etiologies.

Source: Frontiers in Oncology

DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2026.1773709

Authors: Mengmeng Fan, Jiaxiu He, Shihui Sun, Linyuan He, Zhao Zhong

Institutions: Tang Du Hospital, Air Force Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Peripheral Neuropathies and Disorders

Subfield: Clinical Neurology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801