Paraparesis in a patient with advanced HIV infection: A diagnostic conundrum

Anupa John, Nitin Gupta, Kavitha Saravu*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

In patients with HIV infection, lower limb weakness is a result of the pathological involvement of the brain, spinal cord or peripheral nervous system. The pathological process can be opportunistic infections, nutrient deficiencies, neoplastic infiltration or HIV itself. Here, we present the case of a 50-year-old manual labourer who presented with gradually progressive lower limb weakness, sensory disturbances, impotence and urinary urgency. He was diagnosed with HIV during evaluation. Based on the presentation and other supportive laboratory and radiological evidence, the following differentials were considered: vacuolar myelopathy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and myeloradiculopathy. The patient was initiated on antiretroviral therapy, and he showed significant improvement of symptoms on follow-up. We report this case to discuss the diagnostic puzzle.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere240725
JournalBMJ Case Reports
Volume14
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 09-03-2021

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Paraparesis in a patient with advanced HIV infection: A diagnostic conundrum'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this