New onset neuromyelitis optica in a young Nigerian woman with possible antiphospholipid syndrome
Author Information
Author(s): Komolafe Morenikeji A, Komolafe Edward O, Sunmonu Taofiki A, Olateju SO, Asaleye CM, Adesina Olufemi A, Badmus SA
Primary Institution: Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Hypothesis
Is neuromyelitis optica associated with antiphospholipid syndrome in African patients?
Conclusion
Neuromyelitis optica should be considered in the differential diagnoses of acute myelopathy in Africans, especially with possible autoimmune associations.
Supporting Evidence
- The patient presented with neck pain, spasms, and spastic quadriplegia.
- Initial MRI showed a hyperintense focus in the spinal cord.
- Treatment included intravenous methylprednisolone and physiotherapy.
- Follow-up showed sustained clinical improvement over 8 months.
Takeaway
A young woman in Nigeria had a rare condition called neuromyelitis optica, which affected her vision and movement, and it might be linked to another condition that affects the immune system.
Methodology
Case report detailing clinical presentation, imaging, and treatment of a single patient.
Limitations
Only one case is reported, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
28-year-old Nigerian woman of Igbo ethnicity.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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