POEMS syndrome--a case for more aggressive treatment.
BACKGROUND
Patients with POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal or M-protein and skin changes) syndrome exhibit a wide range of clinical manifestations and are often seen by a variety of specialists prior to diagnosis.


METHODS
We describe a case of POEMS syndrome that first presented with significant neuropathy but progressed to develop further manifestations of the condition, including marked gastrointestinal symptoms.


METHODS
The patient was commenced on localised radiotherapy and chemotherapy in addition to immunomodulatory therapy for the neuropathy.


CONCLUSIONS
We highlight several learning points that may benefit physicians from varied specialties. This case is also unique for its marked gastrointestinal manifestation. To our knowledge, this is the second reported case in the literature with this feature.
Rathakrishnan
Rahul
R
Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, National University Hospital, Singapore. rahulrathakrishnan@yahoo.com.sg
Liu
Te-Chih
TC
Chan
Yee-Cheun
YC
Ong
Benjamin K C
BK
D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D007155:Immunologic Factors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016878:POEMS Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D007155:Immunologic Factors