Journal of Clinical Neurology  2009;5(2):97-100

doi:10.3988/jcn.2009.5.2.97

Stroke Mimicking Encephalopathy as an Initial Manifestation of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.

Jeong Min KIM 1 ; Keun Hwa JUNG ; Soon Tae LEE ; Hee Kwon PARK ; Kon CHU ; Jae Kyu ROH

Affiliations

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Keywords

lymphoma; cerebral infarction; paraneoplastic; leukoencephalopathy

Country

Republic of Korea

Language

English

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Systemic lymphoma can be difficult to recognize due to its diverse manifestations. Paraneoplastic leukoencephalopathy has rarely been reported in the context of lymphoma. CASE REPORT: We report a 45-year-old man with systemic lymphoma whose initial manifestation was sudden-onset leukoencephalopathy, mimicking stroke. This patient, who was eventually diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, initially presented with sudden cognitive impairment and gait disturbance. Radiological studies suggested a paraneoplastic leukoencephalopathy. Chemotherapy for lymphoma resulted in clinical and radiological improvement. CONCLUSIONS: The presented case indicates that diffuse large B-cell lymphoma may initially appear as a treatable leukoencephalopathy.