Progressive myoclonus epilepsy with demyelinating peripheral neuropathy and preserved intellect: a novel syndrome

Arch Neurol. 2009 Jul;66(7):898-901. doi: 10.1001/archneurol.2009.131.

Abstract

Background: The progressive myoclonic epilepsies (PMEs) are a disparate group of syndromes whose common features include disabling myoclonus, progressive cognitive decline, and seizures, typically with a relentless deterioration over time.

Objective: To report a novel PME syndrome.

Design: Case report.

Setting: Epilepsy service in a tertiary care urban medical center.

Patient: A 24-year-old man with progressive myoclonus, seizures, and unique features of preserved intellect and demyelinating peripheral neuropathy.

Main outcome measure: Detailed clinical assessment, electrophysiologic studies, and survey of the literature.

Results: We characterize an unusual PME phenotype with unique features of preserved intellect and electrophysiologic evidence of a generalized demyelinating peripheral neuropathic condition. An extensive diagnostic evaluation did not reveal an underlying cause, and a literature survey did not identify other, similar clinical reports.

Conclusion: We describe a novel PME syndrome with preserved intellect and demyelinating peripheral neuropathy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Electroencephalography / methods
  • Evoked Potentials, Somatosensory / physiology
  • Humans
  • Intelligence*
  • Male
  • Myoclonic Epilepsies, Progressive / complications*
  • Neural Conduction / physiology
  • Polyradiculoneuropathy / complications*
  • Young Adult