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Abstract Details

A Diagnosis of POEMS in Stroke Clinic
Cerebrovascular Disease and Interventional Neurology
Cerebrovascular Disease and Interventional Neurology Posters (7:00 AM-5:00 PM)
236
To present a case of POEMS syndrome which was diagnosed in stroke clinic.
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A 48-year-old male smoker with prior history of cocaine use was seen following a left posterior inferior cerebellar artery infarct in March 2019. The stroke was deemed cryptogenic by referring physicians following investigations notable for hypoplastic left vertebral artery and hypertriglyceridemia. During evaluation in the stroke clinic, additional history was obtained. In June 2018, 10 months prior to the stroke, he was diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis of the left hip. Plaquenil and methotrexate were prescribed with no improvement. In November 2018 he developed severe progressive neuropathic pain in both legs. CT in April 2019 revealed a sclerotic lesion of left ramus pubis and lymphadenopathy which was biopsied and showed plasmacytoma. Serum immunoelectrophoresis identified an IgG lambda monoclonal spike (1.19 g/dL). Neurological exam in July demonstrated mild distal weakness in lower extremities, decreased sensation in a length-dependent fashion, and areflexia. Violaceous discoloration of both feet was present. EMG showed mixed axonal-demyelinating motor > sensory polyneuropathy. Homogeneous enhancement of cauda equina was seen on MRI. Plasma Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) was elevated at 313 pg/mL (normal <86 pg/mL). He was diagnosed with POEMS (Polyneuropathy, Organomegaly, Endocrinopathy, Monoclonal gammopathy, Skin changes). Other findings consistent with POEMS were thrombocytosis, low testosterone and hyperfibrinogenemia. He was initially treated with bortezomib, dexamethasone, and lenalidomide followed by autologous stem cell transplant.

Here we present a case of stroke in the setting of POEMS syndrome. POEMS syndrome is a rare disease which increases the risk of stroke. The cause of stroke in POEMS is not clear but possible factors include thrombocytosis, hyperfibrinogemia, vasculopathy, or an elevated VEGF. Furthermore, this case underscores the importance of obtaining a careful medical history and practicing an open-minded approach, particularly when evaluating young individuals with cryptogenic stroke.

Authors/Disclosures
Matthew William Rondeau, PA
PRESENTER
Matthew William Rondeau has a non-compensated relationship as a Senior contributor to Neurology Podcast with Âé¶¹´«Ã½Ó³»­ that is relevant to Âé¶¹´«Ã½Ó³»­ interests or activities.
Matthew William Rondeau, PA Matthew William Rondeau has a non-compensated relationship as a Senior contributor to Neurology Podcast with Âé¶¹´«Ã½Ó³»­ that is relevant to Âé¶¹´«Ã½Ó³»­ interests or activities.
Michal Vytopil, MD (Lahey Clinic) Dr. Vytopil has nothing to disclose.