Korean J Pain.  2014 Jan;27(1):77-80. 10.3344/kjp.2014.27.1.77.

A Case of Neuromyelitis Optica Misdiagnosed as Cervicogenic Headache

• Choi SI
• Lee YJ
• Kim DW
• Yang JY

• KMID: 2278207
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3344/kjp.2014.27.1.77

Abstract

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system associated with longitudinally extensive myelitis and optic neuritis. It is characterized by relapses that lead to blindness and paralysis sequelaes. But, this is rare disease; therefore high clinical suspicion for a correct diagnosis and proper examinations are not easy. However, early diagnosis is essential to prevent sequelae. We report the case of NMO with headache. A 30-year male patient who suffered headache visited our pain clinic because of aggravated pain despite treatment. The cause of the pain was revealed as NMO by more detailed previous history and examination.

Keyword

headache; myelitis; neuromyelitis optica; optic neuritis

MeSH Terms

Blindness
Central Nervous System
Demyelinating Diseases
Diagnosis
Early Diagnosis
Headache
Humans
Male
Myelitis
Neuromyelitis Optica*
Optic Neuritis
Pain Clinics
Paralysis
Post-Traumatic Headache*
Rare Diseases
Recurrence

Figure

• 

  Fig. 1 Extensive intramedullary high signal intensity at medulla oblongata and C-spine (between medulla oblongata and C5).

• 

  Fig. 2 Marked improvement of previous intramedullary high signal intensity at cervical spinal cord, since last MRI.

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