Intracranial tumor masquerading as cervical radiculopathy: a case study.
Physicians who treat musculoskeletal and neurologic disorders often treat patients who have paresthesias or weakness of a single extremity. Although the diagnosis is often straightforward, cases that are atypical in nature may pose a diagnostic dilemma. This report describes the case of a middle-aged man with symptoms indicative of, though not classic for, a cervical radiculopathy. An extensive investigation was unremarkable and only the eventual rapid progression of symptoms led to the diagnosis of a glioblastoma multiforme. Although this is a deadly form of brain cancer, early recognition provides the best chance for a prolonged and greater quality of life.
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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Cianca
D001706:Biopsy; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D003951:Diagnostic Errors; D018450:Disease Progression; D004576:Electromyography; D005385:Fingers / Q000294:innervation*; D005909:Glioblastoma / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009460:Neurologic Examination; D010292:Paresthesia / Q000209:etiology*; D011843:Radiculopathy / Q000175:diagnosis*