• Manmin Zhu, Changyin Yu, Zucai Xu, Haiqing Zhang, and Hao Huang.
• Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China.
• Medicine (Baltimore). 2024 May 24; 103 (21): e37605e37605.

RationaleSubacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord is a degenerative disease of the central and peripheral nervous systems caused by vitamin B12 deficiency, mainly involving the spinal cord posterior, lateral, and peripheral nerves, but rarely involving the cerebellum.Patient ConcernsA 41-year-old woman presented with a 2-year history of walking unsteadily. Her hematologic examination revealed megaloblastic anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency. Electromyography showed multiple peripheral nerve damage (sensory fibers and motor fibers were involved). Imaging examination showed long T2 signal in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spinal cord and cerebellum. Gastroscopy revealed autoimmune gastritis.DiagnosesSubacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord.InterventionsBy supplementing with vitamin B12.OutcomesThe patient's symptoms of limb weakness, diet, and consciousness were improved, and the muscle strength of both lower limbs recovered to grade IV.LessonsThe symptomatic people should seek medical treatment in time to avoid further deterioration of the disease. When esophagogastroduodenoscopy is performed as part of routine physical examination in asymptomatic people, it should be checked for the presence of autoimmune gastritis. Early diagnosis can prevent irreversible neuropathy.Copyright © 2024 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

18 keywords...

hide…