Acute cerebellitis, transverse myelitis and polyradiculoneuritis related to post-COVID-19 infection

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2022 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2021.1969502 · Published: January 1, 2022

Simple Explanation

This case report describes a rare combination of neurological conditions following a COVID-19 infection. Specifically, the patient developed cerebellitis (inflammation of the cerebellum), transverse myelitis (inflammation of the spinal cord), and Guillain-Barré syndrome (a disorder affecting the peripheral nerves). The patient, a 42-year-old man, experienced ascending paralysis, problems with coordination (ataxia), and urinary retention two weeks after recovering from COVID-19. After treatment with corticosteroids, the patient showed significant improvement. This case suggests that COVID-19 can trigger a complex autoimmune response affecting multiple parts of the nervous system simultaneously, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

One 42-year-old man

Evidence Level

Level 4, Case Report

Key Findings

1
A 42-year-old male developed cerebellitis, transverse myelitis, and GBS two weeks after a COVID-19 infection.
2
MRI revealed cerebellitis in the brain and transverse myelitis at the T11/T12 level of the spinal cord.
3
The patient showed significant improvement with corticosteroid treatment alone, without the need for immunotherapy.

Research Summary

The case report presents a unique instance of a patient developing acute cerebellitis, transverse myelitis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) following a COVID-19 infection. Neurological examination and MRI confirmed the presence of cerebellitis and transverse myelitis, while nerve conduction studies indicated early signs of GBS. The patient was treated with corticosteroids and showed a rapid recovery. This case suggests that COVID-19 can lead to simultaneous involvement of the central and peripheral nervous systems, potentially through an immune-mediated mechanism.

Practical Implications

Increased Awareness

Clinicians should be aware of the potential for complex neurological manifestations following COVID-19 infection, including the rare combination of cerebellitis, transverse myelitis, and GBS.

Early Diagnosis

Prompt diagnosis through neurological examination, MRI, and nerve conduction studies is crucial for timely intervention and management of these conditions.

Treatment Strategies

Corticosteroid treatment may be effective in managing these post-COVID-19 neurological complications, potentially leading to significant functional recovery.

Study Limitations

1
Single case report limits generalizability.
2
The exact mechanism linking COVID-19 to the simultaneous occurrence of cerebellitis, transverse myelitis, and GBS remains unclear.
3
The long-term outcomes for patients with this combination of neurological manifestations are not yet known.

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