Anti-Ri Antibody Paraneoplastic Syndrome Without Opsoclonus-Myoclonus

Abstract

Anti-Ri antibody paraneoplastic neurologic syndrome historically has been linked to ataxia, opsoclonus-myoclonus and brainstem encephalitis, but these “cardinal features” are not necessary for its diagnosis, which should be considered in patients with subacute course of heterogeneous neurological manifestations. This is a report of a man who suffers from anti-Ri antibody paraneoplastic syndrome, with an atypical clinical presentation. His syndromic diagnosis was confirmed by serum western blot analysis that revealed the presence of anti-Ri antibodies. Clues to the underlying malignancy were given by FDG-PET scan that demonstrated a hypermetabolic peripancreatic lymph node. Besides highlighting clinical features of anti-Ri antibody syndrome that will help its early recognition and the appropriate steps for its diagnosis, we also discuss various treatment modalities that should be considered in this population in order to improve morbidity and mortality.




J Neurol Res. 2014;4(1):31-33
doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jnr261w