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THE NEUROPATHY SPECTRUM IN WALDENSTRöM'S MACROGLOBULINAEMIA
  1. Aisling Carr1,
  2. Zane Jaunmuktane1,
  3. Sebastian Brandner1,
  4. J Kothari2,
  5. Julian Blake1,3,
  6. Shirley D'Sa2,
  7. Mike Lunn1
  1. 1National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery
  2. 2UCLH, London
  3. 3Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital

Abstract

Background UK WM Guidelines recognise 2 mechanisms of nervous system involvement either direct tumour invasion of the CNS or antibody mediated damage to peripheral nerves. We present 5 cases illustrating an extended diversity of PNS involvement in WM with implications for treatment and outcome.

Cases A 73 year-old man (IgMκ WM) developed progressively disabling tremor with stable WM. Neurophysiology was demyelinating with disproportionate DMLs; anti-MAG antibodies were strongly positive. He was treated with DRC with symptom stabilisation.

A 64 year-old woman (IgMκ) with typical anti-MAG neuropathy developed severe episodic foot pain and ulceration. Skin biopsy confirmed leucocytoclastic vasculitis. She was treated with DRC but died from sepsis.

A 43 year-old man (IgMκ WM) with rapidly progressive sensorimotor neuropathy had lymphplasmacytoid cellular infiltrate in sural nerve. He was successfully treated with IDARAM.

A 59 year-old man (IgMλ WM) developed small then large fibre axonal neuropathy with autonomic symptoms within 2 years. A SAP scan showed moderate kidney uptake. MRI neurography directed biopsy and confirmed amyloid. Palliative treatment was offered.

A 70 year-old woman (IgMλ WM) developed severe burning pains in her feet and became ataxic 2 months later. Sural nerve biopsy confirmed endoneurial amyloid. DRC was given.

Discussion These cases highlight the importance of accurate diagnosis in WM-associated neuropathy. We propose a novel diagnostic algorithm.

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