Cervicomedullary astrocytoma simulating a neuromuscular disorder.
A 12-year-old male developed progressive proximal upper extremity weakness over a 3- to 4-year period. The clinical findings of proximal upper extremity weakness and atrophy, prominent scapular winging, and no sensory deficits or upper motor neuron signs suggested a neuromuscular disorder. Electromyography was consistent with a chronic denervating disorder involving the upper cervical anterior horn cells or their axons. A cervical magnetic resonance image revealed a large intramedullary mass extending from the inferior aspect of the fourth ventricle down to the level of T2. A biopsy of the lesion was consistent with a low-grade astrocytoma.
Department of Neurology, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, USA.
K J
KJ
Felice
F J
FJ
DiMario
D001254:Astrocytoma / Q000150:complications*; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000150:complications*; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008526:Medulla Oblongata; D018908:Muscle Weakness / Q000209:etiology*; D009333:Neck; D009468:Neuromuscular Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D013120:Spinal Cord Neoplasms / Q000150:complications*