BMC Neurol, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-021-02332-3 · Published: June 29, 2021
An 80-year-old man went to the ER with walking difficulties, pain, and confusion. He was evaluated for dementia and ultimately diagnosed with possible Alzheimer’s disease and a malignant plasmacytoma causing spinal cord compression. This report highlights the case of an elderly man whose confusion and cognitive impairment, initially attributed to other causes, were ultimately found to be linked to spinal cord compression caused by a rare tumor called plasmacytoma. The case suggests that unusual results in spinal fluid tests, combined with unexplained confusion, should prompt doctors to look for spinal issues affecting fluid circulation.
Encourages comprehensive neurological evaluations for elderly patients presenting with acute confusion in emergency room settings.
Highlights the importance of considering spinal pathologies affecting CSF circulation when encountering severely abnormal amyloid CSF levels.
Promotes consultations with specialists (neurologists, geriatricians) for patients with suspected or confirmed dementia to avoid misdiagnosis.