Objective: The purpose of this case study is to describe a patient presenting to a chiropractic clinic with a rare and deteriorating demyelinating neurological condition.
Summary of Background Data: The patient is a 43 year old Hispanic female presenting with a rash and deteriorating neurological symptoms including: Upper motor neuron (UMN) and lower motor neuron (LMN) signs, claw hand, and progressive unilateral weakness. An MRI of the cervical and thoracic spine suggested a large astrocytoma. Subsequent university hospital neurology center evaluation resulted in a diagnosis of transverse myelitis (TM) secondary to neuromyelitis optica (NMO).
Methods: No chiropractic treatment was rendered. The patient was subsequently airlifted to a university medical center hospital where she was treated.
Results: Following medical treatment with steroids the patient achieved partial recovery with likely permanent sequelae.
Conclusions: It is important for the chiropractic physician and orthopedist to recognize serious neurological conditions that may present to a clinic. Appropriate referral and diagnostic work up are essential to minimize permanent sequelae.
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